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Roskam, Coolidge make their case in new 6th District
Election 2012
Peter Roskam
PARTY: Republican (incumbent)
HOMETOWN: Wheaton
FAMILY: Wife of 24 years, four kids
EDUCATION: B.A. in Political Science and History, University of Illinois; J.D. from Kent College of Law
WEBSITE: roskamforcongress.com
Leslie Coolidge
PARTY: Democrat
HOMETOWN: Barrington Hills
FAMILY: Not married, no kids.
EDUCATION: B.A. in Government from Harvard University; M.A. in Accounting from New York University
WEBSITE: coolidgeforcongress.com
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Updated: December 2, 2012 6:46AM
Due to drastic changes in the 6th Congressional District boundaries, incumbent Republican Peter Roskam and Democratic challenger Leslie Coolidge said they had their work cut out for them during the campaign.
Just days before Election Day, Nov. 6, Roskam reported that he’s been going door-to-door and hosting community meetings to reach out to his constituents, old and new.
“I’ve always been a big believer in grassroots events,” Roskam said. “I’ve also visited health care facilities to address all their Obamacare concerns.”
Since this is Coolidge’s first time running for public office, she said she’s also focused on meeting voters and listening to their concerns, especially those who are new residents of the district.
“Seventy-five percent of this district is new because of redistricting,” Coolidge said. “A vast majority of people will have new representation no matter (who wins).”
Both candidates were clear stating their top priorities, and provided plans to address them.
“This is an election that should be about the economy, and I decided to run because I’m a certified personal accountant; someone who would deal with the economic issues,” Coolidge said. “Safeguarding social security and Medicare into the future is also important. I’m also a big supporter of the President’s jobs bill.”
Coolidge noted that she’s heard from a lot of people who are hurting and looking for economic answers.
“I believe we need to invest in existing infrastructure and continuing to invest in research that will start new industries to hire people,” Coolidge said. She also said education and skills training are essential to local job creation.
Roskam said jobs and the economy also top his agenda.
His focus would be on Washington, D.C., Roskam explained, making sure the federal government lives within its means. He also stressed the importance of tax reform.
“I’ve heard overwhelming in the 6th District, especially in the new parts, that these are top issues,” Roskam said. “We have a tax code that is not competitive. We need more competitive tax codes so companies will invest in the U.S.”
Roskam also is devoting his attention to pursuing North American energy independence.
“An incredible amount of resources available and technology has skyrocketed,” Roskam said. “We should pursue them in thoughtful ways, and it has a big impact on economic growth and long-term strategic interest.”
One thing both candidates can agree on, though, is the importance of this election.
“I think it’s important to look at both of us,” Coolidge said. “I think we need someone with a good economic background, like myself. I was watching the debt-ceiling rise last summer and thought that it was unacceptable and not in good behavior.”
Roskam called the Nov. 6 vote the “most consequential election we have seen in our lifetime.”
“We need to stop thinking the government can borrow and spend to prosper,” Roskam said. “We need to live within our means, and if I’m elected, I will make those good choices.”
