Democratic Congressional candidate Brad Schneider of Deerfield told more than 150 supporters and volunteers Saturday at the opening of his Northbrook campaign office how they will make a difference in one of the most hotly contested races in the country.

“When you’re out there knocking on a door and someone expresses a concern to you you can assure them it will get back to the campaign,” Schneider said stressing the importance of grass roots campaigning.

Schneider is challenging Rep. Robert Dold (R-Kenilworth) in the Nov. 6 general election.

Introducing Schneider, Chris Kennedy of Libertyville, the Democratic candidate for Lake County State’s Attorney, let the crowd know the race for the 10^th Congressional District seat would have a national spotlight on it.

“I read a story this week the DCCC (Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee) has reserved $3.1 million to spend on advertising in the area,” Kennedy said.

Some of the people in the room were not always Schneider supporters. Vernon Township Democratic Chair Steve Rosenzweig supported Ilya Sheyman in the Democratic primary but has turned into a Schneider backer.

“As I got to know Brad (after the primary) I realized he shared most of my values,” Rosenzweig said.

Patch will publish a story Monday with more information from Saturday’s opening as well as other weekend campaign activities of both Dold and Schneider.