Henry Hyde's "conservatism" has never impressed me all that much. I think he's something like "C" rated by the NRA, and while yes, I know I'm a single issue voter, a politician's stand on guns usually (IMHO) reflects their overall political views.
That said, yes, we have to hold the seat, no question. The Dems picked Tammy Duckworth because she's a war veteran, and because they can grab the women's sympathy vote every time they show her prostheses. Emotion over substance, every time with these people.
As a registered Republican and (multiple) gun-owner, i'm certainly inclined to continue voting for my party of choice and the NRA's endorsement. But after a recent debate with my loony leftist neighbor, a few points she made actually resonated with me. Why is Roskam against an assault weapon's ban (a ban supported by Henry Hyde) and why is he in favor of destroying records at gun-shows after 90 days. Initially, i didn't believe my neighbor when she told me this was Roskam's stance....but i checked it out myself and she's right. What's the deal??