About the Candidate
Name: Robin Kelly
DOB: April 30, 1956
Occupation: Member of Congress
Political Experience: Illinois House of Representatives 2003-2007, US House of Representatives 2013-present
Website: robinkellyforcongress.org
Twitter: @RobinLynneKelly
Candidate Statement
Hello, I am Congresswoman Robin Kelly.
Our great country is in crisis. We are facing a pandemic, civil unrest, a crumbling economy, climate change, and gun violence remains a constant problem for our communities.
As we confront these uncertain times, I have continued to fight for the 2nd Congressional District as well as all Americans.
I have secured millions in federal grants for local health centers to expand coronavirus testing and worked with colleagues to encourage HHS to require labs to report patients' race and ethnicity with COVID-19 tests in an effort to combat disparities.
Hearing the cries of the thousands of Americans who have taken to the streets to protest the breach of trust between law enforcement and the communities they protect, led me to introduce legislation that expands state attorneys’ general power to investigate patterns and practices of some law enforcement agencies.
I have worked with local elected officials, organized labor and business leaders to help them navigate existing COVID19 response legislation and to solicit ideas for additional federal support as we begin to rebuild our economy.
With wildfires engulfing our west coast and hurricanes battering the East coast as well as the gulf of Mexico, it is important that we address the issue of climate change, which is why I was proud to co-sponsor the Climate Action Now Act.
Gun violence continues to terrorize our community. It is not only a criminal justice issue, it is also a public health emergency as well. I recently introduced and passed an amendment that increases funding for the Center for Disease Control to research gun violence prevention.
I see you, I hear you and I pledge to do my part by fighting for all Americans.
I am Robin Kelly and I ask for your vote.
Thank you!
Candidate Q&A
Why are you running?
I have dedicated my career to service and have had the honor of serving at the local, county, state and federal levels. Since 2013 I have had the privilege of representing the 2nd Congressional District on Capitol Hill as an advocate for Illinois families and I hope to continue my service to them.
What is your vision for this office?
My priorities are expanding access to healthcare, addressing gun safety, consumer protection and economic development. Additionally, my district offices focus on constituent services and are responsive to the needs of the people of the 2nd District.
What do you think is the most pressing issue facing your constituents and how do you plan on addressing it?
The COVID crisis, which has affected all Americans, but has had a disproportionate impact on communities of color. I have secured federal grants for health centers to expand coronavirus testing. Additionally, I, along with House and Senate colleagues, encouraged the HHS to require labs to report patients' race and ethnicity. This information is needed to combat healthcare disparities. I am working with local officials, organized labor and business leaders to hear the concerns, help them navigate COVID response legislation and solicit ideas that can help rebuild our economy. Lastly, I continue to work on legislation to extend unemployment benefits, protect renters, as well as homeowners, small businesses and provide stimulus payments. We passed the HEROES Act three months ago and need the Senate to pass it or work with us in coming up with an acceptable compromise.
