Duckworth has proven leadership skills

I consider myself a fiscally moderate, socially progressive independent. Since my first vote in 1972, I've always voted my conscience. I was honestly horrified when my district lines were changed after the last census, finding myself contemplating the possibility of another term being unrepresented by Joe Walsh. I was so relieved when Tammy Duckworth was elected.

Now, I find myself frustrated with the next generation of Walsh-style candidate, which is why I really appreciate the woman that represents our district. In my opinion, Tammy Duckworth is not only a dynamic, intelligent woman with years of experience as an officer, veteran, advocate and congresswoman but a compassionate, pragmatic person who listens, keeps an open mind, works with representatives on both sides of the aisle and cares about her constituents, her country and the world.

I have no doubt that if we do our job of getting her re-elected, she will continue to do her job working for us. When I say us I don't mean a single interest group, but all her constituents, because that's the way she rolls! Using her positions on the Armed Services, Oversight and Government Reform committees to cut waste and fraud in defense spending, she co-introduced the SERV ACT, which clarifies active duty service and training to exclude enrollment in military prep schools ensuring veterans' tax credits and benefits go to those who actually served, cost savings in defense appropriations by returning the military branches to one camouflage pattern; introducing the Troops Talent Act, which helps transfer military skillsets into civilian credentials or licenses and allows military tuition assistance to be used for courses that guarantee industry certifications after successful completion.

Duckworth's leadership is proven, now we must send her to back to D.C. to get the job done for the 8th District.

Ronda Scott-Marak

Wheeling