Congressman Eric Sorensen (IL-17) released the following statement on the news that American Airlines will offer twice daily service from Quad Cities International Airport to Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT) starting on December 20, 2023. “To grow our economy, support jobs, and increase opportunity, it is critical that we expand access to other parts of our country and gateways to the world,” said Sorensen. “I welcome this announcement from American Airlines, which will create a direct connection to one of the busiest airports in the United States. I remain committed to making... Read More

Congressman Eric Sorensen (IL-17) is joining the Department of Commerce to announce over $1 billion to expand high-speed internet access in rural communities across Illinois.   “I welcome this much-needed investment to expand high-speed internet access across our rural communities,” said Sorensen. “I’ll continue to make sure families in Central and Northwestern Illinois, regardless of ZIP code, have access to the health care, education, and economic opportunities provided by an internet connection in 21st century America.”   “Thanks to President Biden’s Investing in... Read More

Congressman Eric Sorensen (IL-17) is requesting over $120 million in the upcoming federal budget for upgrades to antiquated locks on the Mississippi and Illinois rivers.   “I’m proud to request funding for this transformational investment that will help sustain Illinois farmers and workers for generations to come,” said Sorensen. “Increasing efficiency on our state’s waterways will get goods to market faster, strengthen our region’s economy, and support jobs.”   “The full funding of the NESP program is a game changer for Illinois farmers. Ensuring... Read More

Today, Congressman Eric Sorensen (IL-17) and Ranking Member Mark Takano (CA-39) introduced the Autonomy for All Disabled Veterans Act, which will help disabled veterans make accessibility improvements to their homes.   “Making sure our veterans can live comfortably after serving is one of the ways we can show our gratitude for their sacrifices,” said Sorensen. “This bill helps veterans who need this critical support transition smoothly from their time bravely serving our nation.”  “Over the last few years during the Democratic majority, the House Committee on Veterans’... Read More

Congressman Eric Sorensen (IL-17) congratulated Peoria Christian High School junior Emmelia Edwards on winning the 2023 Congressional Art Competition. Her submission, Grandma’s House, will be displayed in the U.S. Capitol building for one year.   “One of the responsibilities I look forward to most is recognizing our many talented neighbors in Central and Northwestern Illinois,” said Sorensen. “It was an honor to celebrate so many gifted young people from across our district at Western Illinois University, and to encourage them to pursue their passions and use their talents to improve... Read More

Congressman Eric Sorensen (Il-17) introduced amendments that would better secure the southern border and prevent the spread of fentanyl to an immigration bill the House of Representatives considered this past week.   “We need to secure the border and work together on bipartisan solutions that fix our broken immigration system,” said Sorensen. “That’s why I took the initiative to make our points of entry stronger and communities safer from the spread of deadly synthetic drugs. I’m urging my colleagues to come together to strengthen our nation’s border security.”   Sorensen’s... Read More

Congressman Eric Sorensen (IL-17) announced $416,363 for Augustana College to conduct a study to expand therapy for those with disorders related to language and communication.  “Northwestern Illinois once again shows itself to be a leader in the area of expanding access to care for those who need it most,” said Sorensen. “I applaud Augustana College and their cutting-edge team of researchers for securing this critical funding to support care for those living with communicative disorders.”  “Augustana’s Speech, Language, and Hearing Clinic is one of the oldest college... Read More

On Wednesday, April 12, 2023, Congressman Eric Sorensen (IL-17) welcomed NASA Astronaut Kate Rubins to the Quad Cities to meet with students and emphasize the importance of science and education. “In 20 years, when we’re sending the next generation of explorers to Mars, they’re going to be the kids sitting in our elementary schools today,” said Congressman Sorensen. “It’s so important to introduce our kids to the wonders of science so those scientists and thinkers can grow up in places like Central and Northwestern Illinois.” On Wednesday, Sorensen and Dr. Rubins hosted a forum... Read More

ROCK ISLAND, IL – Congressman Eric Sorensen announced the launch of his first Congressional Art Competition for high school students in Illinois’ 17th Congressional District. The winning artwork will be displayed in the U.S. Capitol for one year.   “One of the responsibilities I look forward to the most is recognizing our many talented neighbors in Central and Northwestern Illinois,” said Sorensen. “I look forward to acknowledging the gifted young artists across our District and honoring one talented student’s work in the halls of the U.S. Capitol.”  Submissions must be made by... Read More

MOLINE, IL – Today, Congressman Eric Sorensen (IL-17) marked 100 days serving Central and Northwestern Illinois in Congress.  “During the past 100 days, we’ve made significant progress toward making our communities sustainable, safe, and healthy,” said Sorensen. “It has been an honor to serve Central and Northwestern Illinois in the House of Representatives so far and I look forward to continuing being their trusted neighbor and voice in Congress.”   Sorensen highlighted the following accomplishments during his first 100 days in office:   Helping bring $32,617,709 in grant... Read More