Chris Durbin, the daughter of United States senator Dick Durbin, died on November 1, 2008, after a prolonged battle with congenital heart disease. Durbin lived in the Washington, D.C., area and worked for 16 years for the Department of Agriculture there. "Our thoughts and prayers are with the entire Durbin family," said the senator's spokesman.CNN: Sen. Dick Durbin's daughter dies (November 1, 2008)

Dick Durbin served seven terms in Congress prior to running for Senate in 1996. According to a Time magazine ranking, he is one of the 10 best senators in America, and is especially known for his debating skills.Time Magazine: Dick Durbin: The Debater (April 14, 2006)

In the 2008 election, Durbin will seek reelection for his third term in the Senate. Democratic presidential candidate Barack Obama offered Dick Durbin his condolences on the passing of his daughter.RightPundits: Dick Durbin Daughter Chris Durbin Dies (November 1, 2008)