by Guest Blogger Tammy Duckworth, Candidate U.S. House of Representatives, 8th District
As a nation, we face incredible challenges right now. People are struggling to find jobs, pay their bills and make a better life for their children. When folks that I meet in Illinois’ 8th District tell me about struggling to put food on the table, I understand because I’ve been there.
My dad, a Vietnam Veteran, put himself through college on the GI bill and had a good job. Then at age 55, he suddenly was out of work and the bottom fell out for our family. It took him years to find another job. Ultimately, my mom pitched in by taking up sewing, and I got an after-school job. With hard work and a bit of help, we rolled up our sleeves and rebuilt our lives.
The American Dream I believe in is one that provides anyone willing to work hard enough with the opportunity to succeed. Life isn’t fair and it isn’t government’s job to make life fair. But if you’re not willing to give up on yourself, then we shouldn’t give up on you either. That shared appreciation for hard work and the opportunity to build a future for yourself and your family is the American Dream.
I’m running for Congress to make sure that the programs that helped me and my family get back on our feet are there for others who are working hard to achieve the American Dream. That’s why I’ve launched the American Dream Tour – so that I can hear from people about their hopes and dreams for the future and find ways to support their goals as a member of Congress.
This is a vitally important election that will determine whether we can get this country back on track so that every person has a chance to achieve the American Dream. I hope you’ll come by one of my American Dream Tour stops soon or even consider volunteering for my campaign. I look forward to rolling up my sleeves and getting to work together!
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