Dold Honored as 'Defender of Children' by Advocacy Group

Illinois 10th District U.S. Congressman Robert Dold, R-Kenilworth was one of 66 House members to be recognized for advocating for children by national advocacy group First Focus Campaign for Children.

“Lots of politicians talk about kids’ issues, but few back it up,” said Bruce Lesley, president of the Campaign for Children. “Representative Dold made real commitments to improving the wellbeing of America’s children.”

The organization recognized 33 House members (28 Democrats, 5 Republicans) and 17 Senators (17 Democrats, 3 Republicans) as “Champions for Children” for “their extraordinary efforts to protect and improve the future of America’s next generation.”

Also recognized were the “Defenders of Children,” or those who supported policies “that advance the wellbeing of children.” This list included Dold, Illinois 9th District U.S. Congresswoman Jan Schakowsky, D-Evanston and Rodney Davis, a U.S. house member from Illinois. The “Defenders of Children” included 28 Democratic and 5 Republicans house members (including Dold and Davis) in addition to 15 U.S. Senators (13 Democrats, 3 Republicans and 1 Independent).

“I am a firm believer that every child, regardless of where they grow up, should have access to a high-quality education that equips them to succeed. That’s why I’ve been fighting to ensure politicians in Springfield who are unable to pass a fiscally responsible budget can’t take federal education dollars away from our most in-need students,” said Dold. “As the father of three children and the son of a school teacher, I can think of few higher honors than being recognized as a defender of children. I do not take this responsibility lightly and promise I will continue to be a thoughtful and independent advocate for children in our community and beyond.”