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- Supporting Veterans and the Medal of Honor
We owe everything to Americans who wore the uniform, especially servicemen and women who went above and beyond the call of duty, performing extrao...
- Meeting with Israel's Ambassador
Yesterday, I met with Israel's Ambassador to the United States, Michael Oren, to discuss new ways to expand U.S.-Israel defense relations and curb I...
- Honor Flight Chicago
These men fought to defend our freedoms and I am proud that I was able to share this memorable experience with them. ...
- Bipartisan U.S.-China Working Group Hosted His Holiness the Dalai Lama
I have known the Dalai Lama for more than 20 years and wish him great success on his mission to bring peace to the people of Tibet....
- Abandoning U.S. Missile Defense Sites in Poland: Implications for the U.S.- Polish Relationship
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- $400,000 in Taxpayer Money Proposed for Qaddafi’s Children
Last month, when Scotland freed Abel Baset Megrahi, the only man convicted in the bombing of Pan Am Flight 103, Qaddafi greeted him with a hero’s ...
- Is Our Rising National Debt a Concern?
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- Cutting the Pork
This skyrocketing debt is being purchased by foreign countries, including China, Japan, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, and the United Arab Emirates. Th...
- Ending Wasteful Earmarks
In the midst of an economic crisis, Congress should exercise some measure of fiscal responsibility and work to reduce the deficit. As the only m...
- Drugs, Cartels and the Fight in Mexico
He has arrested more cartel leaders, taken on more gangs and extradited more top drug kingpins to the US than all of his predecessors combined. I ...
- Job Fair and Resources for Job Seekers
Congressman Kirk talks to local residents at the 10th District Job Fair Job Fair Registration One of the three rooms hosting employers at ...
- American Clean Energy and Security Act
As a Navy veteran, I think it is time to set America’s policy towards defunding Middle Eastern dictatorships by cutting our foreign oil bill, g...
- Free Kareem
Young human rights activist, Abdel Kareem Nabil Soliman, or Kareem Amer as he is known in the blogosphere, was sentenced in February, 2007 to rot ...
- Israel's 61st Independence Day
"I deeply hope that the United States, which under your leadership has done so much to find a just solution, will promptly recognize the Provisional...
- Thank You Coast Guard
Many of us might be aware that we are home to two Coast Guard stations in Waukegan and Wilmette. I want to highlight the work of Chief Joel Pribek, ...
- My Meeting with Secretary Shinseki
I had the privilege of meeting with VA Secretary Eric Shinseki today at the North Chicago VA Hospital. I was proud to host Secretary Shinseki at the...
- Socks up 10th: We report better feelings than most others.
According to the Gallup-Healthways Index AHIP Congressional Report, we live in the 24th most happy congressional district in the country. Top honors...
- Stem Cell Research: Thank You, Mr. President
"I support the decision of President Obama to back stem cell research. His decision will be broadly backed by a strong bipartisan coalition on Cap...
- Teaming Up with Rep. Van Hollen (D-MD)
Today, I joined with Congressmen Chris Van Hollen (D-MD) and Pete Hoekstra (R-MI) to introduce the Afghanistan – Pakistan Security and Prosperity ...
- Captive Primate Safety Act
As the lead co-sponsor of H.R. 80, the Captive Primate Safety Act, I was pleased to see it pass the House today by a vote of 323-95. This importan...
- Ta'am Yisrael
This weekend I returned from a week-long mission to Israel with the Jewish United Fund. You can read more about it here. On my first stop in Isra...
- 167th Air Defense Regiment, Israel
Congressman Mark Kirk with the Commanders of the U.S. Army's 357th Air Defense Missile Detachment and Israeli Defense Forces 167th Air Defense Reg...
- Lake Forest High School Debate Team
Whenever I can, I like to meet with any 10th District residents that come to our DC office. Today I had the opportunity to talk with members of th...
- Happy Birthday, Abe
Today is the 200th birthday of one of our greatest presidents – Abraham Lincoln. You can read my remarks in the Congressional Record honor...
- Targeting Lake County Gangs
Today, Lake County Sheriff Mark Curran, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms Special Agent-in-Charge Andy Traver and I announced the “Top 10 Mo...
- Waukegan Town Hall
More than 150 people came to a town hall meeting I hosted at the Waukegan Public Library today. At the meeting we honored Robert Thomas Edgar, a W...
- Town Hall Meeting in Waukegan
At 2 p.m. on Saturday, February 7, I’ll host an open town hall meeting at the Waukegan Public Library. We’ll talk about key congressional issu...
- My Service in Afghanistan
With a president to inaugurate and a troubled economy, we can overlook the sacrifice of our troops in Afghanistan. This conflict, overshadowed by Ir...
- Joseph Sears School
On Thursday, September 18, 2008, I met with a group of students from Joseph Sears School in Kenilworth, IL. As part of their eighth grade trip, they...
- Saving Our Great Lakes
The Great Lakes are among the nation’s most precious natural resources, but the Great Lakes face a number of threats which could affect the long t...
- Radio Deewa
As many of you know, I work on the hunt for Osama bin Laden more than any other member of Congress. According to open-source reports, we suspect B...
- More 10th District Olympic Success
Many of you might have seen yet another 10th District constituent represent our country at the Olympics this weekend. Riverwoods resident and De...
- Congratulations to Olympian Matt Grevers!
Today the 10th District honors a constituent and outstanding American. Born to Dutch parents, Lake Forest-native Matt Grevers was offered a free ride...
- Wouldn't It Be Nice If Kids Didn't Smoke?
Today, I voted in favor of H.R. 1108, the Family Smoking and Tobacco Prevention Act. I am proud to have worked with my colleagues in support of this...
- Saban Fellows
Yesterday, I spoke to a group of young leaders from the American Israel Public Affairs Committee. AIPAC is a pro Israel lobby that has worked for ov...
- PANIM
Yesterday, I met with a group of students from the Jewish organization PANIM (Face to Face). These high school students are from our district. They ...
- Bipartisan Fiscal Discipline Meeting
Members in the photo include: (Left to right) Rep Tim Holden (D-PA) Jim Costa (D-CA) John Tanner (D-TN) Charlie Dent (R-PA) Pete P...
- More Funding for Highways
Today I voted to pass legislation that restores the $8 billion shortfall in the National Highway Trust Fund (H.R. 6532). I was proud to work with my...
- Why Haven't These People Been Fired?
Daniel MuddPresident and Chief Financial OfficerFannie Mae2007 Compensation: $ 11.5 million Richard SyronChairman and Chief Executive OfficerFr...
- Wheeling Named One of Top 10 Towns for Families
The Village of Wheeling is one of the top 10 towns for families in America according to a recent article in Family Circle Magazine. Wheeling was recog...
- A Win-Win for Highland Park and Highwood Families
On Monday I joined with Highland Park Mayor Michael Belsky, Highwood Mayor Vincent Donofrio, Navy officials and Forest City Military Housing represe...
- Green Schools
Yesterday I voted to provide more than $20 billion for green school construction, modernization and repair. Helping educational institutions to re...
- Tents for Earthquake Victims
At around 11 o’clock Tuesday night, my office received word from sources in Sichuan Province that victims left homeless by the recent earthquake d...
- Renewing Our Commitment to the Baha'is of Iran
Our district is home to the Baha’i Temple. We know the Baha’i religion as one of peace, tolerance and diversity. Baha’is remain the larges...
- Holocaust Remembrance Day
Today, as we pause to remember the millions of innocent men, women and children murdered in the Holocaust, we must renew the pledge we made in 1945:...
- Kasey Callen - Cancer Survivor
Kasey Callen of Waukegan was in Washington this week and spoke at a briefing regarding childhood cancer and funding for cancer research. Kasey, 19,...
- Honoring Kate Schneider
I want to congratulate ten-year-old Kate Schneider of Arlington Heights for being honored today at the White House by President Bush with the Presid...
- Mayors Against Gun Violence
This morning, I joined Mayor Bloomberg of New York City and the mayors of Boston, Baltimore and Jacksonville to outline key reforms needed to reduce...
- 10th District Mortgage Roundtable
With more than 1.8 million families at risk of losing their homes this year due to skyrocketing subprime mortgage interest rates, I hosted the 10th Di...
- Town Hall Meeting in Mount Prospect
More than 150 people came to my town hall meeting last Saturday at the Mount Prospect Public Library. We discussed a variety of issues facing the ...
- Major Barrington Barrett, USA
Last week, I pulled six nights of working "mids" in the National Military Command Center of the Pentagon. Working 9 pm to 6 am each night, I led a t...
- What is happening in Tibet?
Rep. Rick Larsen (D-WA) and I called for a meeting of our bipartisan US-China Working Group tomorrow to hear from State Department experts on the si...
- House Passes a Fiscally Irresponsible Budget
Last week, the House passed a budget plan that would raise taxes by $1.265 trillion over the next five years. I voted against this fiscally irresp...
- Libertyville Town Hall Meeting
Yesterday afternoon I held a town hall meeting at the Libertyville Village Hall. More than 100 people attended the standing-room-only event in t...
- Field Middle School Leadership Day
Today I was invited to attend Northbrook-based Field Middle School’s “Leadership Day” for eighth-grade students. Students go through small g...
- Members Indicted for Federal Felonies Should Resign
Last week, an Arizona grand jury indicted Congressman Rick Renzi (R-AZ) on 35 counts. He should resign from Congress. Last June, Rep. Jefferson ...
- Palatine Town Hall
Yesterday, I held a town hall meeting at the Palatine Township Center in Palatine. Approximately 100 people joined us as we discussed protecting t...
- Buffalo Grove High School AP ClassVisit
Buffalo Grove High School recently started Advanced Placement Government classes, and today I had the privilege to meet with more than 20 students t...
- 10th District Mayors Summit
In order to better serve the communities of our district, today I hosted the 10th District Mayors Summit. More than 20 mayors and local leaders jo...
- Association of Flight Attendants
Today, I met with local members of the Association of Flight Attendants. With O’Hare Airport in our community, many 10th District residents spen...
- 10 for the 10th - Cove Alliance - Indian Creek
Darlene Frantonius with the COVE Alliance accepts the 10 for the 10th award In 2003, Uganda-native Hilary Muheezangango was studying for the C...
- 10 for the 10th - Zack Harris - Glencoe
Zack Harris of Glencoe Zack at the 10th District International Volunteer Fair Dancing for Darfur The Darfur region in western Sudan has been pl...
- International Volunteer Fair
America is best when it advances our humanitarian ideals and work overseas. We are the most generous and outgoing givers in the world,...
- Adeline Geo-Karis
Senator Adeline Geo-Karis passed away Sunday at the age of 89. "Geo" broke the steel ceiling in the United States Navy, eventually rising to the ...
- North Chicago Chamber Luncheon
Yesterday, I was invited to speak at the North Chicago Chamber of Commerce’s “Forecast North Chicago” luncheon along with Mayor Leon Rockingha...
- Environment Advisory Board Meeting
Last week, I met with the members of the 10th District Environment Advisory Board. Comprised of regional leaders in the environmental community, t...
- Park City Commemorates its 50th Birthday
Today is the 50th anniversary of the incorporation of Park City, one of the many communities in the 10th Congressional District. Park City has come a...
- Emerald Ash Borer Found in Glenview
Today, officials in Glenview discovered their first case of the Emerald Ash Borer (EAB). The beetles are metallic green and approximately a half-i...
- SCHIP (Again)
Today, I joined with 259 of my colleagues in voting to override the President's veto the Children's Health Insurance Program. The legislation woul...
- 10th District Tree Cities
The National Arbor Day Foundation recently announced its list of more than 3,200 Tree City designees across the country. These towns are committ...
- A gift from Northbrook to Tonatico, Mexico
Today, Northbrook gave an incredible gift to a very poor community in Mexico – a new ambulance. I was honored to join with Village President Gen...
- Opening the Holocaust Archives
As you know, I am leading a bipartisan effort in Congress to open the Holocaust archives in Bad Arolsen, Germany – the largest closed World War ...
- A New Direction in Energy Policy
We are too dependent on foreign oil. As a Navy Reserve officer, I believe our country should adopt an energy independence policy to protect us fro...
- Stevenson High Best in the 10th
Last week, U.S. News and World Report posted their rankings for the 2008 Best High Schools in America. I am proud to say that our area’s strong ac...
- World AIDS Day
Today marks World AIDS Day. It is a time to reflect on an epidemic that turns 26 years old this year. It is no secret that HIV/AIDS has devastate...
- Glenview Cub Scouts
Today I met with Cub Scouts from Glenview to help them earn their Citizen activity pin. Alex Brown, Brian Roche, Calvin Sailer, Daniel Kr...
- Holiday Shopping and Dangerous Chinese Imports
As the holiday shopping season kicks into high gear, stopping dangerous Chinese toys from entering the U.S. market must remain a top priority for th...
- JDAMS
On Monday, U.S. Rep. Christopher Carney (D-PA) and I sent a bipartisan letter to the President moving to block the sale of smart weapons to Saudi Ar...
- Remembering Our Veterans
All too often, our veterans don’t get the recognition that they deserve. But we owe everything to those who wore the uniform. If you enjoy the ...
- Youth Leaders: Let's Protect Lake Michigan!
Last week, I met with more than 20 of the 10th District’s most promising high school students for my Student Leadership Advisory Board (SLAB). F...
- Wall Street Journal: Trillion-Dollar Baby
Wall Street Journal Editorial: Trillion-Dollar Baby October 25, 2007 You can't say Charlie Rangel lacks for ambition. The House Ways and Means C...
- Children's Health -- SCHIP (Again)
This afternoon, I voted for the third time to support extending the State Children's Health Insurance Program (SCHIP). Our bill made some modest c...
- American Veterans Disabled for Life Memorial
Our nation has more than 3 million disabled men and women who wore the uniform, but they have no memorial in our capital to recognize the sacrifices...
- Shoaib's Visit to the 10th District
Many readers of this Web site are familiar with the heroic actions of Salah Uddin Shoaib Choudhury. Shoaib is a Bangladeshi journalist who faces p...
- Kirk Tropical Forest and Coral Conservation Act Passes the House
Rainforests and tropical reef habitats are disappearing at an alarming rate. Earlier this week, the House passed my legislation, H.R. 2185, the Tr...
- 10th District Diabetes Summit
On Monday, I hosted the first 10th Congressional District Diabetes Summit in Glenview in conjunction with the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation ...
- James Lovell Federal Health Care Center
We need heroes. One hero who lives in our district is Capt. James A. Lovell, Jr., the famous astronaut who commanded Apollo XIII, bringing his cre...
- 10th District Veterans Advisory Board
On Saturday, I joined fellow veterans at my Northbrook office for a meeting of the Tenth District Veterans Advisory Board. Attending were veterans...
- Health Insurance for Children? Yes. Cut Care for Seniors? No.
Last night I voted in favor of the Senate's bipartisan bill to expand health insurance for lower-income kids -- called the State Children's Health I...
- Then They Came for the Baha'is
As Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad took the stage today to address students at Columbia University, his government was working at his directi...
- Wheeling Professional Development School Visit
On Friday, I visited Twain Elementary School in Wheeling. Twain’s school district is home to one of the nation’s most innovative student-teach...
- Remembering September 11
Six years ago today, nearly 3,000 Americans lost their lives at the hands of Islamic extremists who hijacked four airplanes, crashing them into the Wo...
- Iraq, General Petraeus and the Iraq Study Group
Congressman Dan Lipinski (D-IL) and I joined today in a bipartisan discussion on the path ahead in Iraq hosted by the Chicago Council on Global Affa...
- Stopping the Flood in Gurnee
As a result of the massive storms that rolled through the 10th Congressional District on Thursday, downed trees littered homes and streets, leaving ...
- Palatine Town Hall
On Wednesday, I hosted a traditional town hall meeting at the Palatine Township Center in Palatine with more than 120 people. For two hours, I f...
- A New Future for Waukegan
In the 1970s and 80s, Outboard Marine Corporation dumped Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBs) straight into Waukegan Harbor. In the early 1990s, the E...
- Energy Bills
Yesterday, I voted to pass H.R. 3122, the New Direction for Energy Independence, National Security, and Consumer Protection Act. This comprehensiv...
- Bipartisan Senate Bill: Better Health Insurance for Children Without Hurting Seniors on Medicare
The Senate is debating a bipartisan bill to expand state health insurance for lower income children, funded by a new federal tax on cigarettes. I ...
- The Best Economy Ever
In an Op-Ed to the Wall Street Journal, economic consultant David Hale details three primary reasons for the growth of the global economy during the...
- 100 Best Places to Live
Money magazine just announced the top 100 "best places to live" for smaller cities. Libertyville was ranked 52 - based on a variety of criteria ...
- Fighting Against BP's Plan to Dump into Lake Michigan
With all of the laws Congress has enacted to restore and protect the Great Lakes, I was stunned to learn of British Petroleum’s (BP) plans to incr...
- Repealing the Tiahrt Amendment
Last week I introduced an amendment to the Justice Department Appropriations bill with Rep. Patrick Kennedy (D-RI) that would have lifted restrictio...
- Opening the Pollution Floodgates
On Sunday, the Chicago Tribune reported that a BP refinery in Whiting, Ind., has plans to significantly increase the dumping of ammonia and industr...
- 24 Billion
Each year, 24 billion gallons of sewage are dumped into the Great Lakes from shoreline cities. To put it in perspective, that is the equivalent of m...
- Driving on the Fourth?
Here is a bit of good news left off the front pages. Look at what has happened to the price of gas this summer driving season (courtesy of GasBudd...
- Presidential Scholars
Each year, the U.S. Secretary of Education announces the nation's Presidential Scholars, a group of outstanding high school seniors that demonstrate...
- Trading in China
The U.S.-China Business Council recently unveiled a new project to calculate U.S.-China trade figures by congressional district. In 2006, Illinois...
- Battle Stations 21
On Monday, I visited Naval Station Great Lakes for the commissioning ceremony of “Battle Stations 21,” the Navy’s new true-to-life training si...
- Military Academies
Today I hosted a breakfast for the 10th Congressional District’s nine appointees to our nation’s military academies. Each year, members of Con...
- Presidential Classroom
Today I met with Alex Plum from Lake Forest Academy. Alex is participating in the Presidential Classroom summer program, a week-long institute for...
- Consultation on Conscience
In April I attended the Religious Action Center of Reform Judaism’s 2007 Consultation on Conscience public policy conference. The primary focus ...
- A gate 17 years in the making
Today I co-hosted a dedication ceremony for the opening of Gate 4 at Great Lakes Naval Station with North Chicago Mayor Leon Rockingham. After the g...
- Video Cicadas!
Cicadas are about as North Shore as you can get. Watch this movie partially funded by the National Science Foundation on the life cycle of our ver...
- Cicada Mania
After much anticipation and media fanfare, the long-awaited cicadas have emerged from their 17-year slumber. This week, forest preserve officials ...
- Memorial Day Medal Ceremony
At a ceremony in Arlington Heights monday, I presented Lake Bluff resident James Kinzer with several medals that he earned for his service during Wo...
- Memorial Day
Memorial Day is a time for us to honor those who wore the uniform and put their lives on the line for our country. To help mark the holiday, I too...
- National Geographic Geography Bee
Today, I meet with Zachary Blumenfeld from Daniel Wright Jr. High School in Lincolnshire. Zachary and his parents are in Washington for the 2007 N...
- House passes tough bipartisan lobbying reform
Today, the long-promised lobbying reform bills came to the House floor. H.R. 2317, the Lobbying Transparency Act, closes a disclosure loophole tha...
- Open Heart Surgery
You may note that I asked for leave from the House today. Every once in a while a family matter takes all of your time and attention. My father is u...
- Wanted: A UN That Works
Iran: a leader on disarmament?Zimbabwe: an economic model?The UN General Assembly says "Yes" The Disarmament Commission of the UN recently elected ...
- Middle School to Watch
Yesterday, I was notified by the National Forum to Accelerate Middle Grades Reform that Field Middle School in Northbrook has been named one of the ...
- Congressional Art Competition
Every year, the U.S. House of Representatives hosts the Congressional Art Competition, which recognizes the nation's most promising young artists. ...
- Forest and Coral Conservation Act
Some of the world's most important natural resources, such as tropical rain forests and coral reefs, are located in areas that can least afford envi...
- Glenbrook Academy of International Studies
On Monday, I visited the Glenbrook Academy of International Studies, which is dedicated to expanding educational curriculum regarding global languag...
- Collecting on a Bet
Today, Habitat for Humanity of Lake County collected on a wager that I had with a Louisiana Congressman. During the Chicago Bears' run to the Su...
- Smoke-Free Illinois
Yesterday, the Illinois House of Representatives passed a statewide smoking ban for public places. If signed into law, Illinois would be the 19th ...
- The Financial Face of Terror
Today I hosted a meeting of the bipartisan Iran Working Group featuring Stuart Levey, the Under Secretary or Treasury for Terrorism and Financial In...
- First Annual 10th District Model Congress
This past weekend, nearly 100 high school students converged on Stevenson High School in Lincolnshire to participate in the First Annual 10th Congre...
- Violence at Virginia Tech
Dozens of people killed by a gunman. School shootings are not just far away events. A similar tragedy happened at a Winnetka school. One of my staf...
- Tax Town Hall
With Tax Day nearly here, I hosted a “Tax Town Hall” in Libertyville today to discuss new free services offered through the IRS, as well a...
- Learning Chinese in Lake Forest
Today, I joined with Yuan Ji, the Education Consul for the People's Republic of China's Chicago Consulate, to celebrate the 10th Congressional Distr...
- Show your support for Chicago 2016
On April 14, Chicago will make its final presentation to the U.S. Olympic Committee (USOC) in the city’s bid to host the 2016 Olympic Games.&nbs...
- Is America's Financial Leadership Ending?
Not yet. But we have seen some disturbing trends in the market. Five years ago, over 80 percent of stocks in new foreign companies were offered ...
- Spring Break
Spring break is a great time for families to come to Washington to see many of our nation’s best museums and historical places. From the S...
- You Can Make a Difference
Today I was honored to accept the American Society of Transplantation’s Legislator of the Year Award. Every day, 17 people die while waiting for...
- H.R. 137, The Animal Fighting Prohibition Enforcement Act
Animal fighting is an inhumane practice and should be prohibited. According to the Humane Society , in addition to being cruel, animal fighting is o...
- Trevians Take Top Honors
This past weekend, New Trier Township High School in Winnetka won the Illinois High School Association’s State Scholastic Bowl. More than 24 sch...
- Conserving Water at Elm Place Middle School
More than 160 seventh-graders presented problems and solutions regarding water conservation at a simulated legislative hearing at Elm Place Middle S...
- Faith in China
Today, we were honored to have Cardinal Theodore E. McCarrick, former head of the Archdiocese of Washington, to speak about the current situation wi...
- New February Deficit Record
Today, the U.S. Treasury Department announced that the budget deficit from October to February is at $162.2 billion, which is about 25 percent less ...
- Traveling Office Hours
Today, my office hosted traveling office hours at the Linden True Value hardware store in Wilmette. Jim Barkemeyer and his family own the store ...
- World Kidney Day
Today I joined with U.S. Rep. Danny Davis (D-IL) to welcome the National Kidney Foundation of Illinois' KidneyMobile to our nation's capitol in cele...
- New Visitor to the Great Lakes
On Monday, I hosted an ad hoc Congressional hearing on the deteriorating health of the Great Lakes with my colleagues U.S. Reps. Judy Biggert (R-IL)...
- Secret Ballot Ban
Today the U.S. House of Representatives debated H.R. 800, a bill that would remove the right of Americans to use a secret ballot in union elections.&n...
- Iran Working Group Hears Expert Testimony
Recognizing the increasing role Iran plays in not only Middle Eastern affairs but global security issues as well, my colleague Robert Andrews (D-NJ)...
- Harbor Happenings
Today, I joined with Waukegan Mayor Richard Hyde, State of Illinois and Lake County officials to present the final plan to cleanup Waukegan Harbor t...
- Meet Alantae Cole and His YouthBuild Success Story
As a 17-year-old, Alantae Cole has seen his share of hardship. After falling in with the wrong crowd in high school, he started using drugs and sk...
- Town Hall Meeting in Mount Prospect
Last Saturday, nearly 100 people from northwest Cook County joined me for a town hall meeting at the Mount Prospect Public Library. For more tha...
- Iraq War Resolution
Our uniformed men and women gave great service to our nation by ending a tyrant’s reign and fostering elections in a region that only knew dictato...
- New Chicago Office in Shanghai
Today, the City of Chicago announced that it will open an office in Shanghai to help spur private economic cooperation with local and Chinese busine...
- 3,700 Missing Security Badges at O'Hare
The security of O’Hare Airport is not what it should be. Reports over the weekend showed 3,700 security badges have not been returned from former ...
- Best MRI in Northern Illinois
Q. Where is the best MRI in Northern Illinois? A. At the VA in the 10th Congressional District. This morning, I toured the VA/Navy hospital in ou...
- There's always next year
I want to congratulate Coach Lovie Smith and the Chicago Bears for a wonderful season and a valiant effort in the Super Bowl. Coach Lovie, along...
- Da Coach
Today I supported House Resolution 90, congratulating our very own Lovie Smith and Tony Dungy of the Indianapolis Colts on becoming the first African-...
- Fully Funding Impact Aid
More than 1,400 school districts and 1.5 million children across the country depend on the Impact Aid program. The bipartisan reforms I outlined w...
- Bipartisan Task Force Against Illegal Guns
Earlier today, standing alongside Mayor Daley, Palatine Mayor Rita Mullins and New York Mayor Michael Bloomberg, I helped inaugurate the bipartisan ...
- Pass Congressional Pension Reform the Right Way
On Monday, the House leadership is scheduled to take up legislation to cancel the pension of Members of Congress convicted of only four types of fel...
- Making college more affordable
With the cost of college continuing to rise, we must do more to help young Americans achieve their dreams. Today, I supported a bipartisan measure...
- Medicare
Today, the House of Representatives passed H.R. 4, the Medicare Prescription Drug Price Negotiation Act of 2007 by a vote of 255 to 170. This bill r...
- Stem Cell Research
Stem cell research remains the greatest hope of one day finding cures for diseases like Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s and Diabetes. As Americans we...
- Medicare
Today, the House of Representatives passed H.R. 4, the Medicare Prescription Drug Price Negotiation Act of 2007 by a vote of 255 to 170. This bill r...
- Raising the Minimum Wage
Last year, I strongly supported an increase in the minimum wage--the first in America in more than a decade. Unfortunately, the Senate failed to a...
- Reforming No Child Left Behind
We have learned more about education assessment in the last five years than the previous 15. We are now forming a bipartisan consensus to fix the ...
- A Memorial for Disabled Veterans
The United States should establish a national memorial for permanently disabled veterans. That is why Rep. Dennis Moore (D-KS) and I introduced le...
- No Pensions for Felons
Last night we passed a new bipartisan ethics reform package to restore trust and accountability in Washington. I was proud to support its passage....
- New Congress, New Agenda
Welcome to the new 110th Congress. Many will note the history of America's first female Speaker. We wish Nancy Pelosi well. As a staffer and a Member,...
- Religious Freedom for Baha'is in Egypt
This holiday weekend serves as a reminder of the importance of our world’s religions to worship free from persecution. That’s why I became alarm...
- We Stand with Israel
I had an opportunity with meet with Israel's new Foreign Minister, Tzipi Livni, over looking the Gaza strip. According to her staff, the HAMAS rad...
- A Mission to Afghanistan
Afghanistan poses a tough problem for the United States and our allies. We face a growing problem of a resurgent Taliban and a drug economy. Unl...
- Visiting the Troops in Iraq
Last week, I joined Senators McCain and Lieberman on a bipartisan mission to Iraq. In sum, I found that many of the conclusions of the Iraq Study ...
- In His Own Words
Yesterday, I gave a speech on the House floor regarding Iran’s President, Mahmoud Ahmadinejad. Never before had the Iranian leader’s own comment...
- World AIDS Day
Today marks World AIDS Day, a time for people around the world to come together against the epidemic that is HIV/AIDS. Over the past twenty-five ye...
- Two Tenth District Residents named Rhodes Scholars
As the Congressman representing one of the most well educated districts in the country, it is my honor to congratulate Elise Wang of Lake Bluff and ...
- Free Choudhury
Today, Rep. Nita Lowey (D-NY) and I introduced bipartisan legislation today calling on the Government of Bangladesh to drop sedition charges pending...
- Human Rights for Baha'is in Iran
I recently received a letter from Kit Bigelow, the Director of External Affairs from the National Spiritual Assembly of the Baha’is of the United ...
- Nobel Peace Prize
The United States swept every Nobel Prize in technical and scientific fields. Today, the committee picked the Peace Prize winner - a man and movem...
- Restoring Great Lakes Fish and Wildlife
Yesterday, the Great Lakes Fish and Wildlife Restoration Act was enacted into law. I was proud to take a lead role in advancing this legislation in ...
- What North Korea Really Looks Like?
I traveled extensively in North Korea. One of my trips took me both east and west of the site where North Korea claims it tested a nuclear weapon....
- Amendments to the House Rules
The Rules of the House should be amended to ensure that the Congress is one of the safest places in America for pages and interns to work and learn....
- Statement Regarding Former Rep. Foley
Children Should be Safe In Congress The Congress should be one of the safest places in American for children to work and learn. I am disgusted...
- Frank Sublett
On Wednesday evening, September 27th, a pioneer for African-Americans everywhere, Frank Sublett passed away. Frank was one of 13 men who broke the Nav...
- Congress Addresses Genocide in Darfur
I wanted to share with you the extension of remarks I submitted today regarding three bills on the genocide in Darfur that passed the House of Rep...
- Spinach E. coli Risk Continues
Two weeks ago, the Food and Drug Administration reported an outbreak of an e. coli infection in raw spinach traced to Salinas Valley, California. Si...
- The Cancer Promise
Today I welcomed sixteen cancer activists to my Washington office where I signed the Congressional Cancer Promise. I joined cancer survivors and th...
- Sending a Message to Iran
Today we sent a strong message to Iranian President Ahmadinejad as he addressed the United Nations General Assembly. As the representative for the B...
- Gas Prices
Take a look at the trend: ...
- Cause for Optimism on September 11th...Commemorating the Fifth Anniversary
Five years ago I was in the Pentagon as two hijacked planes struck the World Trade Center. As the shock set in, several of my Congressional coll...
- Ending Horse Slaughter
Today the House of Representatives passed H.R. 503 to end the inhumane practice of horse slaughter. As someone who cares about animal welfare, this ...
- More Trains, More Time At Home
Today I joined Metra's Executive Director Phil Pagano to announce new express trains for the North Central Line serving the 10th district commun...
- Town Hall Meeting on the Growing Danger to Children from Food Allergies
I joined a group of concerned parents, teachers and health care providers to discuss a growing danger to children: food allergies. The number of...
- Stevenson High School Welcomes the Afghan Parliament
Last week, we welcomed a multi-party, multi-ethic delegation of eight Members of the Afghan Parliament at Stevenson High School as a part of the Hou...
- Active Duty
For the last two weeks, I have been on active duty with the U.S. Navy. While on orders, I served on the staff of Rear Admiral Dorsett, the Directo...
- First Increase in High School Smoking Since 1997
According to a new survey released by the Centers for Disease Control, 2005 saw the first increase in the nation's high school smoking rate since 19...
- Health Information Technology
The House of Representatives passed the Health Information Technology Act by a bipartisan vote of 270 to 148 Thursday. H.R. 4157 is a part of our Su...
- Child Safety Legislation Enacted
Today I was proud to attend the bill signing ceremony for the Adam Walsh Child Protection and Safety Act. This comprehensive legislation is unpreced...
- Iraqi War Veteran Reacts to al-Maliki Speech
Today the new Iraqi Prime Minister, Nuri al-Maliki, spoke to a joint session of Congress. Patrick Tiderman, a current intern in my office who was ra...
- Congressman Kirk Speaks on Israeli Crisis
Mr. KIRK . Mr. Speaker, the Nation has been focused on the war declared by Hezbollah against Israel this past week. And while most of the media focu...
- USDA Release $7.6 Million to Contain Ash Borer Beetle
I am pleased to inform you that the Secretary of Agriculture, Michael Johanns, has released $7.6 million to Illinois and Wisconsin to help contain t...
- Israel's Right to Defend Herself
Today I voted for House Resolution 921, supporting Israel's right to defend herself against terrorist attacks in Gaza and Southern Lebanon. Isra...
- Internet Safety Field Hearing
Today, Congresswoman Judy Biggert and I held an ad hoc hearing on the dangers of social networking sites, such as MySpace.com. We heard testimony fr...
- Support Stem Cell Research
Representative Judy Biggert (R-IL) and I recently wrote a letter to President Bush urging him to support stem cell research. Below is the letter t...
- Responding to Online Predators
The Energy and Commerce Committee today held hearings on Suburban Agenda legislation, the Deleting Online Predators Act of 2006. There were a wide r...
- Pro Trigger Locks
Last night, I voted against an amendment that will gut an important new law. Earlier this year a law went into effect requiring that a child safety ...
- Line Item Veto
As Congress faces the challenge of reducing federal spending, we need every effective tool available. Last week the house passed The Legislative L...
- Red Cross, Red Crescent and now the Star of David
For decades, the international community appeased the purveyors of anti-Semitism by denying Israel's version of the Red Cross from openly practicing...
- Honoring a True American Hero
In June, I presented an American flag flown over the Capitol in honor of Lt. Gen. William P. Levine. General Levine served our country in the U...
- Human Rights in Iran
Today I co-chaired a meeting of the Iran Working Group, a bipartisan caucus I started three years ago with Rep. Rob Andrews (D-NJ) to educate the ...
- Gangs Thrive in the Suburbs
Just yesterday the not-for-profit Chicago Crime Commission issued its "Gang Book," which found a growing trend of violent gang activity in the sub...
- The Pentagon Memorial
I witnessed a solemn ceremony yesterday, breaking ground for the Pentagon Memorial. The memorial is dedicated to the men and women who were a...
- Food Allergies
Yesterday I met with Dave and Denise Bunning, parents from Lake Forest with two young children with food allergies. The Bunning's children are death...
- Suburban Agenda Moving Forward
Today, the Suburban Agenda Caucus passed its first major piece of legislation, the School Safety Acquiring Excellence Act by an overwhelming biparti...
- Revitalizing North Chicago
Today I was proud to stand with North Chicago leaders to celebrate the reopening of the 22nd street crossing, a major road block to economic prosp...
- Global War on AIDS
This year mark s the 25th anniversary of the AIDS pandemic. The disease has made a global journey from the Congo delta to Haiti and into our U.S. ...
- Killing the Bridge to Nowhere
Our infrastructure is a key to the US economy. Maintaining and expanding our transportation infrastructure requires us to be strategic and deliberat...
- Condell Becomes a Leader
Today I joined several representatives from Condell Medical Center in Libertyville in supporting their Emergency Department expansion and their in...
- Do you know how to spell Syringadenous?
Congratulations to 8th grader Theodore Yuan who surpassed his personal goal of placing higher in the Scripps National Spelling Bee than he did in ...
- A Refuge is a Refuge
Yesterday we voted on oil drilling in the Alaskan National Wildlife Refuge. As before, I voted to protect this ecospace, emphasizing conservation ...
- Fallen Heroes Act
Many of us heard of an incident here in Northern Illinois at a recent funeral for a fallen American in the war on terror. A group of extremists w...
- Iranian Persecution of the Bahá'í Faith
The Bahá’í faith, founded nearly 150 years ago, is among the fastest-growing of the world’s religions. Its landmark North American temple grac...
- Congress Passes the PETS Act
According to the Humane Society of the United States, two thirds of Americans have a pet. In the past, our emergency planning focused on saving peo...
- Women in Uniform
There are those in the Congress that want to restrict the Consitutional rights of women who wear the uniform, just because they are stationed overseas...
- A Victory for our Veterans
Today we secured $43 million for a new Navy/VA hospital at Great Lakes. This state-of-the-art health care facility will be the first combination Navy/...
- There is no "Forest Emergency"
Today Congress voted on HR 4200, the so-called "Forest Emergency Recovery and Research Act." This legislation claims to address "emergencies" for ...
- Creationism: Intelligent Design is Neither Intelligent nor Any Help with Design
Tomorrow, we will celebrate the close of our second class of 10th district laureates. Our focus was on "mini-medical school," with 24 gifted 7th g...
- Renee Kimpel: Star Artist from Hoffman Estates
Growing up on Chicago's North Shore, I've shared an appreciation for the arts. With a district that includes some of the the best educated zip ...
- Laureates Wrap Up
Saturday I joined 10th District Laureates for the finale of our 'Mini Medical School' program at Caruso Middle Schol in Deerfield. Students shared...
- MySpace cases hit too close to home
The number of cases of sexual predators targeting children through social networking sites such as Myspace.com have been hitting too close to home. ...
- Walk With Israel
I was honored to speak at the Highland Park walk for Israel. We joined hundreds of people to show our commitment to the alliance between two great...
- Killing Pensions of Congressional Felons
Last year, I introduced legislation to kill the pension of a member of Congress convicted of a felony (H.R. 4535, the Congressional Integrity nad ...
- The Great Raid
On Saturday, I joined the Waukegan police Neighborhood Enforcement Team who delivered a search warrant for narcotics. Waukegan's police include so...
- 10th Congressional District - Home to top public high schools
Newsweek just released their list of the top 1,100 schools in the country with the 10th district leading Illinois with 39% of the list’s top menti...
- Rising Oil Prices and our Booming Economy
Recent economic numbers indicate our economy is booming. 211,000 new jobs were created in March. Our unemployment level has dropped to 4.7 percen...
- US-China Engagement Act
Currently few American high schools offer Chinese language programs. In the 10th District, my alma mater, New Trier High School is leading this ...
- Hu in Washington
Congressman Rick Larsen (D-WA) and I played a part in the summit yesterday between China’s President Hu and President Bush. We formed the U.S.-...
- Cleaning Up Waukegan Harbor
The cleanup of Waukegan harbor will open the largest economic development program in northern Illinois. One study showed that this envoronmental r...
- 10th District Laureates
Saturday I joined 10th District Laureates for the finale of our 'Mini Medical School' program at Caruso Middle Schol in Deerfield. Students shared...
- MySpace
According to the Justice Department, 50,000 pedophiles at any one time are on MySpace.com and other social networking sites looking for kids. MyS...
- 13
That is the average age of a Suburban Gang assassin, used by leaders of "Larry's Original Crew", the "GDs" or "Maniac Latin Disciples." Drug gang...
- Stem Cell Research
I was honored today to be one of the featured speakers at Chicago's Bio convention on the subject of stem cell research. Research on stem cells is t...
- China, Inc?
As one of the Co-Chairs of the bipartisan U.S. China Working Group, I look at the Chinese economy a great deal. With over 8% growth averaged over ...
- Reducing Medical Errors
Fully electronic medical records can reduce errors by over 80%. You may have seen such a system like the one at ENH hospitals called "EPIC". It wa...
- Great Lakes Training to the State-of-the-Art
22 Illinois contractors and the sailors at Great Lakes are building the world's most realistic naval training facility right here in the 10th dist...
- Cutting off Support to Hamas
Secretary of State Condi Rice appeared before our Appropriations Committee today. I asked her about Israel's safety and the new Hamas terrorist g...
- Arabic and Chinese Should be a Priority
Last week, the House adopted the Kirk-Larsen amendment to the Higher Education bill. Our bipartisan amendment expressed the sense of the Congress ...
- Arlington Heights Town Hall
Thank you to everyone who came to our Saturday town hall meeting in Arlington Heights. We had a lively discussion about reducing traffic gridlock ...
- 10th District Spring Break
Today, I was pleased to welcome over one-hundred constituents from the 10th district who are spending their spring break in Washington. I always app...
- Kids Against Mercury
Last week, I met with a group of students from Elm Place School in Highland Park. These young constituents are concerned about the alarming mercur...
- Dora
Muchas gracias a todos por su participacion en nuestro Foro de Servicios de Inmigracion y Feria de Salud Comunitaria en Waukegan. Tuvimos "Dora ...
- Beltway Boys?
Not exactly. I was very pleased to join Mort Kondracke and Fred Barnes for a benefit to support Arena Stage, an arts education program for low-income ...
- Protecting our Children
In our Chicago Suburbs, a large sting operation targeted three men who were using “peer-to-peer” chat rooms to transmit pornographic images and ...
- Addressing Climate Change
Today I visited with the highly acclaimed Dr. Michael Oppenheimer, a leading scholar on global climate change. Dr. Oppenheimer recently appeared ...
- Protecting Our Children
On Wednesday, the House passed the Children’s Safety and Violent Crime Reduction Act. This legislation gives states and local school districts...
- Ports II
Last night, I voted to support the Lewis Amendment, blocking the takeover of U.S. ports by a company owned by the United Arab Emirates. Our actio...
- Honoring the Progress of Women in the Middle East
This morning I honored International Woman’s Day by speaking to a parliamentary delegation of Afghan and Iraqi women. Their struggle to gain equa...
- Arms Trafficking Is a Human Rights Issue
The illicit trafficking in small arms and light weapons is among the greatest threats to regional security in less- developed areas of the world und...
- Avian Flu
We held an important hearing on the U.S. government’s response to the outbreak of Avian flu in the Foreign Operations Subcommittee last week. Wh...
- Protecting our Great Lakes
We must start addressing the problems facing our Great Lakes. On February 16, 2006, I, along with Congressman Emanuel and Congressman Reynolds, intr...
- Eight Weeks Wait for a Doctor's Appointment in Canada
Many people look to Canada as a model for health care policy. While there are many things to admire in Canada, the New York Times recently reporte...
- Protecting our Ports
The security and operation of American ports is clearly a federal function and has been since the Founding Fathers. I think the quick approval of th...
- Bad News Crowds Out Good News
"Bad news crowds out good news." Any news director knows that. Nevertheless, is it accurate to say that everything is trending to the negative i...
- Tanith Belbin and Ben Agosto
I hope you saw our olympic ice dancing stars, Tanith Belbin and Ben Agosto. Ben is from Northbrook and thanks to Sen. Carl Levin, Tanith is also a US ...
- Arctic Medal of Courage
Earlier this week, I was proud to receive the Arctic Medal of Courage from the Alaska Coalition for my work in Congress to protect the Arctic Nation...
- Fareed Zakaria is Right
As the co-Chair of the US-China Working Group, we often discuss the Rise of China and its implications for the United States. Today’s Washington...
- Stop Internet Gambling
As an original co-sponsor of the H.R. 4411, the Unlawful Internet Gambling Enforcement Act of 200, I am working in Congress to enact this important ...
- Good Luck to our Olympians!
I want to pass along best wishes to two special 10th District athletes who will be competing in the Winter Olympic Games. Ice dancers Melissa Gr...
- The State of the Union
I support the call to give families total health care portability so that a mother or father can take his or her insurance to and from any job. I ...
- North Central RailLine
Yesterday I joined Metra Chairman Jeff Ladd and RTA Chairman Jim Reilly to dedicate the start of expanded service on the North Central Rail Line. ...
- Palestinian Elections
The Palestinian elections presented a choice between cooperation and confrontation. Hamas, the party against international cooperation, prevailed. A...
- More on Ethics Reform
Last month, I introduced the Congressional Integrity Act to deny a congressional pension to any Member of Congress convicted of a felony on final ap...
- No vote on oil drilling in the Alaskan Wildlife Refuge
Many of you know, I oppose drilling, seeking to protect the Alaskan Refuge. While my “Green Republican” allies and I kept Refuge drilling provi...
- Americans in Uniform Act
Earlier this year, Rep. Roy Blunt and I introduced the Americans in Uniform Act. The bill included reforms that improve the lives of volunteers who ...
- A Victory for Democracy
Yesterday we saw Iraqis take control of their political destiny, turning out to vote in droves for a new Iraqi parliament. With an estimated 70%...
- No on Torture
Last night I voted in favor of language authored by Republican Senator John MCain to stop torture. This provision in the House was offered by Demo...
- America's Economy
News editors are right when they say bad news drives out good news. Nevertheless, we should take a minute to look at seven key measures of America's e...
- Tax Relief is Good for America
Continued tax relief for hard working American families should remain a priority. As you can see in this chart, economic growth soared since Con...
- Girls Were Once Banned from School
In 1996, the Taliban dictatorship in Afghanistan banned all girls from school. Their policy was to keep women uneducated and in the home. Yester...
- We Mourn the Loss of a Proud Soldier - Sgt. James Ochsner
Two weeks ago, Taliban terrorists detonated an Improvised Explosive Device that killed a U.S. soldier here in Afghanistan. That fellow American wa...
- Taliban Need Not Apply
I spent the day just north of Tora Bora, Osama bin Laden's hideout in 2001. The area was a hotbed of terror where many terrorists from outside Afg...
- "The Chinooks Will Save Us"
It is something you hear very often in the earthquake zone of Pakistan. Last month, a massive earthquake in Pakistan killed over 70,000 people and...
- Happy Thanksgiving!
Kimberly and I wish you and yours a happy and healthy Thanksgiving holiday. I also want to thank everyone who dropped off holiday cards at our o...
- O'Hare - A Bipartisan Victory
O'Hare airport is the key to the economic future of our state. I am very happy that the Secretary of Transportation, Norm Mineta, approved the fed...
- Food Allergies
Melissa Engel, a fifth-grader at Meridian Middle School in Buffalo Grove, is one of many children suffering from severe food allergies. Every day,...
- Defining a social moderate, fiscal conservative
As the co-chair of the Mainstream Tuesday Group, many in the press focus on Republican Moderates and their socially moderate views. We strongly be...
- Veterans Should be Remembered Every Day
We marked Veterans' Day in many northern Illinois locations last week. I met with my fellow veterans in Waukegan, Buffalo Grove and Winnetka. I ...
- Protecting Our Schools
Several months ago, when I first learned the Navy planned to reduce the number of military housing units in North Chicago, I got to work on a plan t...
- Nanotechnology
As a member of the House Appropriations Committee, I was proud to secure funding for the International Institute for Nanotechnology at Northwestern ...
- Private Property Rights
Earlier this summer, the Supreme Court held that "economic development" can be a "public use" under the Fifth Amendment's Takings Clause. In doing...
- Hollywood comes to Kenilworth
You may have noticed that the Metra station in Kenilworth looks a little different these days. It has been changed into a Greyhound bus station in...
- Nine Medicare Townhall Meetings and Counting
Over the last few weeks, I have been holding townhall meetings with our seniors reviewing the new choices they have under Medicare. To date we hav...
- Commander Collins
Last week I had the great pleasure to meet with Commander Eileen Collins who led NASA’s most recent mission to space. Commander Collins an...
- Iran's President
I am proud to be one of five original co-sponsors of H. Res. 523, condemning Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad's threats against Israel. As I ...
- Today's Indictments
Indicted members of an administration should step aside until the legal process is complete. In the wake of today's events, the same stand...
- Congrats White Sox Fans!
Congratulations to the Chicago White Sox and all of their fans for bringing home Chicago’s first baseball championship in 88 years. It was...
- Stem Cell Part II
This week, I went to my dentist and visited with one of the dental hygenists there. We have known each other for a few years and I have watched her ...
- Simon Wiesenthal
Simon Wiesenthal was an inspirational leader in the fight for global human rights who came to embody the slogan ‘Never Again.’ After enduring ...
- Endangered Species Act
Today, the House is debating a particlarly bad bill, seeking to rewrite the Endangered Species Act (ESA). The Act is one of the primary achievements...
- Iran Developments
As co-chair of the bipartisan Iran Study Group in the House, I am working to educate my colleagues on the threat to global security posed by the Ira...
- Domestic Violence Awareness Month
Domestic violence affects women, men, and children of all racial, social, religious, ethnic, and economic groups in the United States. While the r...
- Two Trucks and Counting
The humanitarian response to Hurricane Katrina from the American people has been tremendous. The response we have had to our call for relief sup...
- Hurricane Relief
The pictures of Hurricane Katrina and its aftermath are heart wrenching. All our thoughts and prayers are with the victims and their loved ones....
- America's Image Abroad
We know that one of the greatest assets of the United States is our values and culture. Through symbols like the the Lincoln Memorial or the econo...
- Assistance to Firefighters
First responders are on the front line of homeland security, keeping our communities safe and our nation secure. We must ensure they are able to p...
- No More Delays on O'Hare
In April of 2004, the Federal Aviation Administration issued an environmental schedule, detailing the dates that would lead to its decision regardin...
- Keep Patrick Fitzgerald Around
We are privileged to have a unique public servant like Patrick Fitzgerald as our U.S. Attorney. Since his appointment in 2001, Patrick Fitzgerald ...
- Passing the HEALTH Act
As an original co-sponsor of H.R. 5, the HEALTH Act, I am proud of my colleagues for passing comprehensive medical liability reform. Access to qua...
- Funding Secured for Route 60 Bridge
Later today, Congress is expected to pass the Transportation Equity Act and with it the $9 million I secured to widen the Route 60 bridge over t...
- All Systems Go
NASA is back in space. At 10:39 this morning, Space Shuttle Discovery began its long-awaited journey to the stars, carrying with it seven astron...
- Raising Concerns over Venezuela
There is increasing concern over Venezuela’s plans for stability in Latin America and its regime’s growing ties to Cuba. Last week Venezuela a...
- Voice of America
This morning I appeared on Voice of America’s “Issues and Opinions” morning call-in show to discuss our new U.S.-China Working Group. The sh...
- Letter from Shoaib
A few weeks ago, I worked with the Bangladeshi government and Mt. Prospect writer Dr. Richard Benkin to secure the release of a journalist named Shoai...
- Identity Theft
The number of people victimized by identity theft continues to rise at an alarming pace. Personal privacy is a hallmark of our democracy and we mu...
- Expropriation
In the 1946 movie “It's a Wonderful Life,” Jimmy Stewart's nemesis was Mr. Potter, a wealthy real estate investor and banker who wanted to...
- Asking the EU to cut ties to Hamas
Yesterday I sent a letter signed by 40 of my colleagues to European Union Ambassador John Bruton, asking the EU to cut all communications with Hamas...
- Mississippi Burning Conviction
After more than 40 years, some bit of justice has finally come to Mississippi. Earlier today, 80-year-old Edgar Ray Killen was found guilty of kil...
- Anti-Gang Summit in Deerfield
Suburban drug gangs with strong links to international cartels are an ever-increasing threat to our families and communities. Last week I supporte...
- U.S.-China Working Group
I recently started the U.S.-China Working Group to build diplomatic relations with China and make the Congress more aware of U.S.-China issues. Wi...
- National History Day
National History Day marks its 25th anniversary this week and I want to congratulate all 10th District finalists in the 2005 competition. Every ye...
- Domestic Violence
Today I met with representatives from the Illinois Coalition Against Domestic Violence. The coalition includes groups like WINGS, a Safe Place, an...
- Art Contest Winner
Congratulations again to our 10th District art contest winner, Elle Kruger from Stevenson High School, who participated in the 24th annual Congressi...
- Phone Calls for Fathers Day
What a day! If you were listening to WLS on your way to work, you probably noticed I was co-hosting the Don Wade and Roma show from 5-9 to promote...
- Space Exploration
On the Science, State, Justice and Commerce Subcommittee of Appropriations, I am working to maintain America’s leadership in space exploration. ...
- JDRF Kids Visit Our Deerfield Office
Yesterday I got a surprise visit from more than 50 children from the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF). They came to show their appre...
- Local Spelling Bee Connection
I want to extend my congratulations to Theodore Yuan for a great effort in the National Spelling Bee in Washington. Theodore, just 12 years old, i...
- Memorial Day
Today we remember those Americans who gave the ultimate sacrifice to protect this great nation and defend our way of life. From the beaches of Nor...
- Breast Cancer Research
Yesterday I met with constituents representing the Y-ME Breast Cancer Organization. More than 40,000 women will die from breast cancer this year....
- The stem cell vote is in...
The House just overwhelmingly voted to pass H.R. 810, the Stem Cell Research Enhancement Act of 2005, by a vote of 238-194. This is a great victo...
- Moments after my stem cell floor statement
Just moments ago I spoke on the House floor in strong support of H.R. 810, the Stem Cell Research Enhancement Act of 2005. For 200 years A...
- Stem Cell on the Floor
As many of you blog regulars know, I have worked diligently over the past few months to build support among my colleagues for H.R. 810, the Stem Cel...
- Welcoming President Karzai
I want to pass along welcome wishes to Afghan President Hamid Karzai as he arrives in Washington. With courage and determination, President Karzai...
- Internet-Phone 911 Requirement
A couple weeks ago I asked FCC Chairman Kevin Martin to require internet-phone companies like Vonage to directly connect callers to 911 dispatchers....
- Waukegan Harbor and Des Plaines River
Cleaning up Waukegan Harbor and improving flood protection along the Des Plaines River are high priorities in our district. Today the Appropriatio...
- Stem Cell Hearing
From today's Chicago Tribune: Clara Livingston, 9, who has diabetes, listens to Mary Anne Ostrenga, who has Parkinson's, Monday at the Dirksen Feder...
- Stem Cell Bill Gains Momentum
Our push to relax restrictions on federally-funded stem cell research got a major boost yesterday. Sen. Orrin Hatch (R-UT), a pro-life conservativ...
- Rotary Celebrates 100 Years
A century after its founding, Rotary International maintains a commitment to fighting poverty, hunger and illiteracy and to preserving our environme...
- Sudan Awareness
Many Americans are working to raise awareness about the genocide in Sudan. Last month, I spoke to more than 1000 New Trier students as part of Sudan...
- SHS Makes Top 100
Congratulations to Stevenson High School for placing in Newsweek’s top 100 best public high schools in the nation. The magazine ranks schools ba...
- U.S. Helps Capture bin Laden's Chief Operating Officer
Earlier this week, the United States helped nab Osama bin Laden’s terrorist commander in Pakistan. The arrest of al Qaeda's chief operating offi...
- Holocaust Remembrance Day
Just moments ago I lit a candle in the Capitol rotunda to remember the millions who perished at the hands of the Nazi Regime. Today's remembranc...
- Bravo Zulu Commander!
Today we’re doing something a little different—instead of Mark blogging, “we the staff” are giving it a try. We’re writing today to cong...
- Choudhury Released on Bail
In late 2003, Bangladeshi journalist Shoaib Choudhury was arrested while on his way to Israel to participate in a conference with the Hebrew Writers A...
- OB/GYN Crisis Worsens
The medical liability crisis continues to threaten access to quality health care in Illinois. A recent poll conducted by the American College of O...
- Vonage 911 Alert
If you are using an Internet-based telephone provider like Vonage, you may be in serious danger. When users dial 911 on their VOIP device, they ar...
- Noorzai Indictment
The arrest of Haji Bashir Noorzai is a major victory in the War on Terror and in our fight against heroin production. Noorzai controlled a huge po...
- Protecting Quiet Zones
As you may remember, a few weeks ago I sent a letter to OMB asking for a review of an unfair and costly mandatory train whistle rule. Today we dis...
- Remembering the Armenian Genocide
It was a great honor to address the Armenian Caucus last night in observance of the 90th anniversary of the Armenian Genocide. This week Armenia...
- Fuel Efficiency
Tonight I supported an amendment to the Energy Bill to increase fuel economy standards from today's average of 25 mpg to 33 mpg over 10 years. The...
- SLAB Community Service
I want to thank the members of our Student Leadership Advisory Board who participated in last weekend’s community service project. Saturday was ...
- Mayors Summit
Today's annual 10th District Mayors Summit was both productive and informative. Hearing from our mayors is vital to my work in Washington. ...
- Way to go Dan!
Today I was proud to congratulate an impressive young constituent. Dan Klein, a student at St. Viator High School in Arlington Heights, set out to...
- Drug Task Force
As a member of the Speaker’s Task Force for a Drug-Free America, I heard from Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice yesterday on the growing drug th...
- Repealing the Death Tax
Moments ago, the House voted to permanently repeal the Death Tax. This tax is wrong. It hinders economic growth and threatens the future of Amer...
- Breaking the Boutique Fuel Monopoly
This week’s spotlight on gas prices continues with the first of four proposals to bring relief at the pump. Congress must act quickly to e...
- Taking on the Price at the Pump
Gas prices are skyrocketing around the country, up 19 cents a gallon in the last three weeks alone. Without comprehensive action, we could see the...
- Pope John Paul II
World leaders are converging on Rome today in preparation for the funeral of Pope John Paul II. As a life-long champion of human rights and inspir...
- Viktor Yushchenko
It was a great honor to hear from Ukraine’s new democratically elected leader at today’s joint session of Congress. I applaud Viktor Yushchenk...
- Rising Anti-Semitism in America
The Anti-Defamation League’s annual report on anti-Semitism in America is startling. The ADL reported 1,821 anti-Semitic incidents in 2004, the ...
- New EPA Guidelines
Last week the EPA took a major step in updating its guidelines for chemicals that might cause cancer. The old guidelines were more than 20 years o...
- Fighting Drug Gangs
Drug gangs in the 10th District are targeting suburban teens and we are looking for the best ways to combat this growing threat. On Wednesday nigh...
- Medals Long Overdue
During the Battle of the Bulge, Milton Greenfield was a First Lieutenant, Tank Platoon Commander, in the Third Army Sixth Armour Division, commonly ...
- Deadline for Low-Income Prescription Drug Credit
Tomorrow is the deadline for low-income seniors to take full advantage of the government’s $600 prescription drug benefit program. Low-income se...
- Congratulations Spartans
The 10th District is home to this year’s IHSA Class AA Boys Basketball champions. Congratulations to the Glenbrook North Spartans for their exci...
- A Warm Letter to Pass Along
A couple weeks ago an Appropriations Subcommittee adopted a requirement for full, independent audits of the Palestinian Authority. These audits wi...
- Get Well Soon, John!
Congressman John Shimkus is a dear friend and esteemed colleague. We learned yesterday he successfully completed heart surgery and we wish ...
- Americans in Uniform Act of 2005
Reservists and Guardsmen are being called upon to serve their country more than ever before. The sacrifices they make are unique and pose great ch...
- Stopping Candy-Flavored Cigarettes
Some irresponsible companies of the tobacco industry have lost all moral authority with the proliferation of candy-flavored cigarettes. Names like...
- No Drilling in the ANWR
The Alaskan National Wildlife Refuge (ANWR) is a prized jewel of our national ecosystem. Congress should work to preserve this environmental sanct...
- Helicopters for Afghanistan Part II
I recently sent a letter to Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice urging her to send newer helicopters to Afghanistan designed specifically for counte...
- Aviation Noise
Aircraft noise is a critical national environmental issue. As we modernize our aviation infrastructure, our local communities should work with fed...
- Chinese Espionage
The rising level of cyber-terrorism and corporate espionage originating from China is alarming. Both pose major threats to our national security a...
- Auditing PA Funds
For years, Yasser Arafat banned outside audits of PA finances while his government sent “martyr payments” to the families of homicide bombers. ...
- Train Whistle Follow-up
A few weeks ago my colleagues and I sent a letter to the director of OMB questioning a costly federal train whistle regulation. The Federal Railro...
- Getting Parents Involved
Parents and teachers know that the key to success begins at home. For non-English speaking students, the need for parent participation is even mor...
- The Global AIDS Crisis
As the international leader in human rights and medical research, the U.S. must continue its fight against the global AIDS pandemic. I strongly su...
- Repeal the Death Tax Permanently
To foster economic growth and relieve stress on American families, Congress should permanently repeal the Death Tax. The Death Tax poses a serious...
- Asbestos Reform
To save American jobs and boost our economy, Congress should pass asbestos litigation reform immediately. An estimated 60,000 workers are unemploy...
- Impact Aid
As we improve the pay and benefits of men and women in uniform, we must also support their kids and the local schools they attend. Soldiers make g...
- Calling All Interns
Just as a friendly reminder, our office deadline for summer internship applications is March 8th. In Washington, interns learn the intricacies o...
- Blog on Blog
Our blog is a huge success, attracting hundreds of “pageviews” a day from our district and around the country. It’s even featu...
- Keep the Arms Embargo against China
To protect international security, maintain regional stability and keep our commitments to democratic allies, the European Union should not lift its...
- Lake Michigan Webcam
As the new co-chair of the Great Lakes Task Force, I am working to protect the crown jewel of our environment—Lake Michigan. In the year ahead, ...
- Military Quality of Life
Last week I was appointed to the new Military Quality of Life and Veterans Affairs Subcommittee of the House Appropriations Committee. The subcomm...
- Helicopters to Afghanistan
As we work to maintain a stable democracy in Afghanistan, we must move quickly to prevent a narco-state from emerging. At this time, the United ...
- Stem Cell Research
I was honored today to be one of the featured speakers at Chicago's Bio convention on the subject of stem cell research. Research on stem cells is the...
- TV and Radio Ads Publicize Reward for bin Laden
Pakistanis living along the Afghan border woke up this morning to a new message on their TV and radio: There’s a $25 million reward for the captur...
- Remembering Abraham Lincoln on His Birthday
In the midst of a global War on Terror and a changing world economy, the United States is faced with new and difficult challenges. In such an er...
- Sugar Reform
Congress must focus on reforming the U.S. Sugar program. The 10th District is home to thousands of workers and small business owners whose family ...
- Black History Month
February is Black History Month, a time to celebrate great achievements and educate ourselves about the past. In the 10th District, it’s a...
- Cautious Optimism
The world optimistically looked on this morning as Prime Minister Sharon and President Abbas shook hands. This is a fragile opportunity and commit...
- School Supplies to Iraq
The 10th District Student Leadership Advisory Board is collecting school supplies to send to kids in Iraq. Folders, notebooks, paper, pens and pen...
- Move the U.S. Embassy in Israel to Jerusalem
Jerusalem is the historic capital of the Jewish people and must remain Israel's undivided capital. Since 1995, Congress pushed to move the U.S. em...
- State of the Union
The Congress has an obligation to restore fiscal responsibility to Washington and I applaud the President for addressing this issue. To keep our...
- Standing Together Tonight for Illinois Patients
Last week we unveiled the “Keep Doctors in Illinois” wristband campaign and promised to lead the way toward true medical liability reform. Ton...
- Stevenson teacher posts Kirk floor speech
Barry Bradford, a teacher at Stevenson High School, posted a recent floor speech honoring three of his students for their efforts in helping reopen th...
- Stopping by a Mock Debate in the Capitol
This morning I had a chance to visit with a few 6th graders from Forest Bluff School in Lake Bluff. They’re in DC for a mock debate and th...
- An Iraqi Voter Blogs His Story
There are few words to describe the pictures of Iraqis voting in free elections for the first time in their lives. The jubilation, the pride, th...
- Saying No to Noise Pollution
The Federal Railroad Administration is just a couple steps away from imposing a costly train whistle regulation on our communities. The rule could...
- On the 60th Anniversary of the Liberation of Auschwitz
When we liberated Auschwitz, we said "Never Again." Sixty years later, that pledge must still be honored. A new anti-Semitism is rising in...
- Tsunami Relief
When the UN's disaster relief coordinator Jan Egeland called Western nations like the United States "stingy" in their help for developing nations, he ...
- Keep Doctors in Illinois
As you’ve seen in the news recently, access to quality healthcare is reaching a crisis point in Illinois. Doctors are leaving the state en mass ...
- The Hunt for bin Laden
I returned from the Afghan-Pakistan border last week with great news: the hunt for bin Laden has ratcheted up another notch. The State Departmen...
- New Congress, New Blog!
The 109th Congress is underway and we're launching a new Congressional Blog to update you on what's happening inside the Beltway. If you're...
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