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1991-1999
During her eight years as Illinois’ First Lady, Brenda Edgar was a full partner to the Governor in his public and political life. She served as the Governor’s ambassador and advocated for improving the lives of Illinois women and children.
Cognizant of the traditional role of the First Lady, Mrs. Edgar served as the state’s “official hostess,” was at the Governor’s side during election campaigns, performed volunteer work, filled in for her husband at public appearances, and was the caretaker of the first family’s official residence, the Executive Mansion.
She also recognized that expectations for political spouses had changed in the 1990s. Her programmatic agenda was not so traditional. She was the first First Lady to regularly meet with the news media on issues surrounding state government. She had a full-time policy staff member on the Governor’s senior staff. She was the first First Lady to testify before a legislative committee. She led the movement for establishing an office dedicated to women’s health, one of only six such offices in the country. She tackled roadblocks to adoptions.
