President Obama Endorses Robin Kelly in 2nd District Race

President Barack Obama is endorsing 2nd District candidate Robin Kelly in the race to fill the vacated seat of defamed former Rep. Jesse Jackson Jr.

According to Obama, like-minded partners such as Kelly are needed in the House of Representatives to help “continue moving America forward.” 

“Robin is a tireless champion for building small businesses, supporting middle-class families, protecting our seniors, improving transportation and expanding access to health care,” President Obama said. “I share Robin’s passionate advocacy to end gun violence with common sense solutions because like her, I believe families impacted by gun violence—especially in my home city of Chicago—deserve a vote.”

In a statement by Kelly, she refers to President Obama as her "friend."

“Since our work together in the Illinois legislature, we have shared a vision of helping communities thrive by supporting small businesses and economic development, giving children and adults alike great education and training, and ending the cycle of gun violence,” Kelly said. “In Congress, I look forward to continuing working with the President and members of our Illinois delegation to achieve the bright future Americans deserve.”

Kelly will face off against Republican nominee Paul McKinley, Green party candidate LeAlan M. Jones and Independents Curtiss Llong Bey, Marcus Lewis and Liz Pahlke in next Tuesday’s April 9 consolidated election.

Check Patch's Election Central for more info on the upcoming April 9th election