US Rep. Tammy Duckworth announces pregnancy

CHICAGO (WLS) -- U.S. Rep. Tammy Duckworth, of the suburban Hoffman Estates, announced she is pregnant Monday on the "Today Show." Duckworth says she and her husband are expecting a baby girl in early December.

"My husband Bryan and I are thrilled to announce that we are expecting our first child later this year," she said. "We are overwhelmed by the support of our family, friend and neighbors. I look forward to continuing my work in Congress to make sure that all my constituents have the opportunity to achieve the American Dream."

Duckworth, 46, who is an Iraq veteran and a double amputee, announced her pregnancy as part of a "Today Show" segment about four amputees from the Iraq War who have recently had babies or are pregnant. She has been married since 1993 to Bryan Bowlsbey, also an Iraq veteran.

She says the women were there for her during her greatest trauma, when she lost both legs after her helicopter was shot down in Iraq in 2004. The 46-year-old says the women will now be together for their "greatest joy."

Duckworth is running for re-election on Nov. 4. She faces Republican Larry Kaifesh of Carpentersville, a fellow veteran.

The Associated Press contributed to this report