Illinois’ Second Congressional District has a voice again. Democrat Robin Kelly easily beat five opponents in the special election to fill former Congressman Jesse Jackson, Jr.’s U.S. House seat. The district has been without representation since Jackson resigned in November, shortly after winning re-election, in spite of corruption allegations and an extended leave to deal with bipolar depression.
Kelly is a former state representative and held top positions in the offices of Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle and former State Treasurer Alexi Giannoulias. She earned her PhD. From Northern Illinois University.
Kelly made gun control a big issue in her primary and general election campaigns. During her victory speech Tuesday, she reiterated her support for tougher gun control measures, pledging to take on the National Rifle Association, the Tea Party, and “anyone else standing in the way of safety.”
Congress’ newest member could be sworn in as early as Thursday.