Tammy Duckworth

Tammy Duckworth

Years in Office

12

Bills Sponsored

524

Bills Co-Sponsored

3065

Committees

4

Tammy Duckworth Biography

Tammy Duckworth, a U.S. Army veteran who lost both legs in combat, was elected as U.S. Senator for Illinois in 2016. She prioritizes veterans’ affairs, accessible healthcare, and disability rights, drawing from her personal experiences in service and recovery. Duckworth authored the Friendly Airports for Mothers Act, improving facilities for traveling parents, and serves on the Armed Services and Environment and Public Works Committees. Her leadership is marked by a focus on practical solutions and bipartisan cooperation, consistently working to ensure Illinois families and veterans have a strong voice in Washington.

Education

  • Ph.D. in Human Services, Capella University
    (2014)
  • M.A., George Washington University, Washington, DC
    (1992)
  • B.A. in Political Science, University of Hawaii
    (1989)

Professional History

U.S. Representative

(2013-Present)

Representing Illinois

Assistant Secretary of Public and Intergovernmental Affairs, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs

(2009–11)

Staff Supervisor, Rotary International

Director, Illinois Department of Veterans Affairs

Impact & Accomplishments

Notable contributions during Tammy Duckworth's congressional service.

Veterans Affairs Reform

Co-authored and passed the Clay Hunt Suicide Prevention for American Veterans Act to improve mental health care for veterans.

Air Carrier Access Amendments

Introduced legislation to strengthen protections for airline passengers with disabilities, improving accessibility and enforcement.

Water Infrastructure Funding

Secured federal funding for Illinois water infrastructure projects, including upgrades to drinking water and wastewater systems.

Family Leave for Military Families

Championed the Military Parental Leave Modernization Act, expanding paid parental leave for all military branches.

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