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Duckworth Announces A Run For U.S. Senate

Tammy Duckworth

U.S Sen. Mark Kirk will face a challenge from Congresswoman Tammy Duckworth, who announced Monday she'll run for the seat. It's unknown who else will vie for the spot, but it's already expected to be a tight race.

Duckworth, who was elected to the U.S. House in 2012, took to YouTube to declare her candidacy.

"I'm running for the U.S. Senate in 2016 because it's time for Washington to be held accountable, and to put Illinois' families and communities first," she said in the video.

Duckworth goes on to make vague aspirations, like making college loans more affordable and giving the middle class and small businesses tax breaks.

Duckworth is an Iraq War veteran, new mother, double amputee and a Democrat.

Kirk, who is continuing his recovery from a stroke, is also a former military man. His spokesman touted the Republican's record on veteran's affairs, and his "independent leadership."

Amanda Vinicky moved to Chicago Tonight on WTTW-TV PBS in 2017.
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