About Julie Hamos
A hot 2010 race
With GOP Cong. Mark Kirk running for the U.S. Senate, Democrats have an opportunity to pick up Illinois’s 10th congressional district in 2010. Long a GOP-stronghold, this seat is primed for takeover -- voters here chose Obama in 2008 and Kerry in 2004 -- and with five-term state Rep. Julie Hamos in the race, it’s a great opportunity to add a new pro-choice Democratic woman to Congress. Hamos is a public interest lawyer who has devoted her career to improving the lives of women and families. Co-founder of the Illinois Coalition Against Domestic Violence, she helped write the state’s first laws to protect battered women. A 32-year resident of Illinois, Hamos emigrated to the U.S. as a child when her family fled Hungary during the 1956 revolution.
A compelling leader
Hamos is a creative leader with experience tackling complex issues as an attorney and a legislator. As a staff member of the U.S. House Ways and Means Committee, she helped educate Americans about the then-newly established Earned Income Tax Credit. In the Illinois House, she founded and chaired the Illinois House Mass Transit Committee, leading the effort to reform Chicago’s regional transit system. Named a “top legislator” by more than 25 organizations, Hamos has forged legislation to make buildings more energy efficient, promote electronic health records, and expand access to affordable housing. A former board member of Planned Parenthood/Chicago Area, Hamos is a passionate advocate for the right to choose.
A February 2 primary, a short electoral timeline
Before she can battle Republican attempts to hold this seat, Hamos must win Illinois’s early February 2 primary against Kirk’s two-time challenger, an experienced candidate who raised millions for his prior campaigns. Then she must regroup quickly to face the full force of a Republican party that will strenuously defend their turf. Hamos has won before with help from EMILY’s List’s Political Opportunity Program -- now she needs strong support from EMILY’s List members to win this congressional seat for Democrats.
