For Immediate Release Contact: Brian Doory

February 4, 2008 (708) 672-4100 office

CRETE, IL – With her eyes now set on a November victory, State Senator Debbie Halvorson officially became the Democratic nominee in Illinois’ 11th Congressional District, winning her party’s primary today. Halvorson’s victory comes on the heels of being named the Democrats’ best chance for a “pick up” of a Republican-held seat this November.

“Voters turned out in incredible numbers today in support of our campaign,” said Halvorson. “I am deeply grateful, and I want them to know that I have heard their call for change. I have heard their call for new leadership focused on the needs of working families.”

Headed into the general election, Halvorson said she will focus on the needs of the district. “Families in this district are working harder and harder for less and less. They don’t need empty promises; they need real solutions right now – affordable health care, living wage jobs, and a secure retirement,” said Halvorson. “That has been my focus and that will be my focus well past next November.”

Joined Tuesday evening by supporters from across the district, Halvorson reminded them of what is at stake in this election and the work that lies ahead. “We have a lot to do from now until November. And when we win, that’s when the real work will begin,” Halvorson said.

In January, the Politico named Halvorson’s Campaign in Illinois 11th District the Democrats’ best chance, nationwide, for a “pick up” of a Republican-held seat this November. [Dem Chances in GOP-Held Seats, Politico, 1/2/08]