Born in Bangkok, Thailand, Tammy is a Veteran of the Iraq War, a former assistant secretary of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, a former head of the Illinois Department of Veterans Affairs, and a retired lieutenant colonel in the Illinois Army National Guard. Currently serving in Congress, she believes supporting women should be a top priority for the country and has fought for equal pay for equal work as a cosponsor of the Paycheck Fairness Act. When she’s elected, Tammy will bring a wide range of experience to the U.S. Senate—not just on issues affecting veterans, but also on issues affecting all working Americans, including job creation, strengthening the economy, improving access to health care, and national security.