Illinois Senator Tammy Duckworth has been a prominent figure in Washington, advocating for veterans’ affairs, disability rights, and transportation infrastructure. At a recent Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee hearing, Duckworth pressed the Department of Veterans Affairs over delays in implementing key provisions of the PACT Act, a landmark law expanding healthcare benefits for veterans exposed to toxic burn pits. She expressed frustration with the slow pace, citing difficulties veterans face in accessing benefits and resolving claim errors, and stressed the need for the VA to improve processes and communication.

Duckworth’s concerns were informed by a series of town hall meetings she held across Illinois in February, where veterans and their families shared their experiences with the PACT Act and other VA issues. Drawing on her own experiences navigating the system after losing both legs in the Iraq War, Duckworth emphasized the need for streamlined processes.

Beyond veterans’ issues, Duckworth is playing a key role in the debate on aviation safety following a series of near-miss incidents at airports nationwide. She has called for increased oversight of the Federal Aviation Administration and advocated for funding to modernize air traffic control. Recently, she co-sponsored bipartisan legislation to enhance FAA safety measures.

Duckworth remains a strong advocate for accessible air travel, pushing for stronger protections for passengers with disabilities, including improved wheelchair assistance and guidelines for airline staff on handling mobility devices. In Illinois, she has championed infrastructure projects, securing funding for transportation improvements such as upgrades to Chicago’s public transit system and repairs to roads and bridges.

Recently, Duckworth applauded the awarding of federal grants for several key Illinois projects, highlighting their positive impact on local economies and residents. As she looks to re-election in 2028, Duckworth remains focused on constituent services and policy initiatives that directly impact Illinois residents and the veteran community, seeking pragmatic, bipartisan solutions. She has also been a vocal commentator on international affairs, calling for continued U.S. support for allies and humanitarian aid for affected populations in ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East.