Many reasons to support Kirk

Mark Kirk's independence and fiscal responsibility in Congress are the single most notable aspects of his candidacy.

As a Naval Reserve Intelligence Officer and a foreign policy expert in the U.S. House, we can rest assured he will bring strong foreign affairs experience to the Senate.

But Kirk has also made encouraging small-business employment, job growth and strong economic recovery the cornerstone of his campaign.

His 10-point plan would reduce government bureaucracy for small businesses, exempt them from the capital gains tax for several years and reduce our nation's booming deficit.

Kirk opposed Washington's trillion-dollar stimulus plan that has failed to help bring jobs back to our economy. His amendment for a bipartisan oversight panel of the plan was rejected by Democratic leaders.

Kirk voted against the Democrats' death tax bill to increase this year's estate tax from 0 to 45 percent. He has stood steadfast for permanently repealing the death tax and marriage penalty.

His support of the line-item veto and work for a balanced budget highlights the fiscal conservatism we need to reign in Washington's out-of-control spending.

For all these reasons and more I'm supporting Mark Kirk for Senate.

Herb Rosen

Deerfield