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CG. 77-22636 efforts, which resulted in his election to the Illinois State Assembly. Devoe encouraged Mikva to begin his political career as an independent (not affiliated with either major political party) and was instrumental in raising funds from other independents in the Chicago area for his first campaign, Mikva registered very well with the com- munity and was elected. During his first term as an Illinois Assemblyman, Mikva was voted the out- standing Freshman legislator. After so establishing his political base, one of the major parties rushed to endorse him after that. Mikva has never needed vested interest to support him, which was evidenced by the fact that when the boundaries of his district were changed, Mikva still had the grassroots support to get re-elected to the U.S. House Representatives. Devoe stated that Mikva is still basically independent in his attitude and deals with the needs of the com- munity and follows the dictates of his conscious. Devoe is acquainted with Mikva's family, whom he described as exceptional in that they supported Mikva throughout his career, even though it meant putting aside many material comforts. Devoe described Mikva as a true intellectual, who is always searching for the truth. He has an background in economics and accounting and could have had an outstanding career as a lawyer. Mikva is in sound physical and mental health, and has no disabilites or impairments. Devoe has no doubt that Mikva can make the transition from the legislative to the judicial branch, because Mikva is the not the ordinary politician, and because he kept his legal tools sharpened through the years. In addition, Mikva has a great capacity to work, Mikva has a strong committment to equal justice under the law, and is strongly motivated by his feelings and concerns for the rights of the individual. Based on his knowledge and close association with Mikva through the years, Devos highly recommended Mikva for appointment to the U.S. Court of Appeals.