I'm in Springfield today, and President Obama just finished addressing the Illinois General Assembly.
I've heard President Obama speak dozens of times dating back to 2003 when he was first running for the United States Senate. Every time I hear him speak I am left awestruck and inspired and today was no different.
In 2006 when I was first running for the Illinois Senate, then-Senator Obama came to Elgin to campaign on my behalf and he endorsed my campaign by saying:
"Mike Noland can accomplish great things for the people of this district if you send him to Springfield. That's why I am asking you to join me in supporting Mike Noland."
--then Senator Barack Obama
October 26, 2006
I think about that gracious quote from time to time and I hope that I've not let him down in doing great things for the people of my district.
Today, nine years later I am a member of the State Senate and I sit in the desk once occupied by the President when he sat in this body.
Part of the reason I am running for Congress is because I want to lead on many of the issues the President has supported throughout his career. Whether it is expanding health care, protecting our environment or continuing the fight for equality, I plan to lead on these core Democratic values.
Thank you again for your support, it is your faith in me that helps me keep up striving to do great things for the people that elected me.
State Senator Mike Noland
Democratic Candidate for Congress