Biggert signs on with national party for help

U.S. Rep. Judy Biggert has traditionally not been seriously threatened by the growing Democratic inroads in the suburbs.

That could change next year, and the Hinsdale Republican is preparing for it.

The 10-year incumbent was one of the first 10 Republicans to sign on Tuesday for special help from the national party for the 2010 elections.

Biggert beat the well-funded Scott Harper in the fall with about 54 percent of the vote. But her 13th District, which includes southern DuPage and northern Will counties, also went for President Barack Obama.

In the past, Biggert has won the district with well over 60 percent of the vote, and she even hit 70 percent in 2002.

Biggert was criticized early in her 2008 race against Harper for getting beaten in the critical money race.

This time, Republicans hope that doesn't happen. The "Patriot Program" Biggert signed up for requires her to be aggressive in fundraising and campaign management.

"Her inclusion in the Patriot Program is proof that she is smartly taking her upcoming campaign seriously, and we are prepared to help her in that effort," said Paul Lindsay, spokesman for the National Republican Congressional Committee.

In exchange for her pledge to campaign "seriously," the NRCC has agreed to provide her access to a network of national donors, fundraisers from prominent party members and direct campaign help, likely to include costly TV ads and fliers.

A spokesman for Biggert said the congresswoman signed on to the program to warn Democrats she is prepared for a fight.

"She wants to let them know that this seat is not for sale," said spokeswoman Kathy Lydon.

Help: Biggert is prepared for a fight