Madam Chair, I rise today in strong opposition to Representative Boebert's amendment. I am proud to live in an Army town, and I am the only LGBTQ person to serve on the House Committee on Armed Services. I find it outrageous that this Commander in Chief and his loyalists want to kick true Americans out of the military for a reason that does not pertain to a person's capability as an effective soldier, sailor, airman, or marine--all because they think there is something inferior or less than if you are trans. We know what happens in our country when we lose the most qualified members.
2026 MidtermsLikely SeatD+9D shift +5$1.5M raised
Eric Sorensen
Representative · Illinois · Democrat
Eric Sorensen
House Floor
Recent comments in the House
Mr. Chair, I rise today in strong opposition to the Grothman amendment. I am proud to live in an Army town and represent the historic Rock Island Arsenal in the House of Representatives. Every single one of my neighbors works to support our troops and make sure that our readiness and logistics keep our country safe. I find it outrageous that this Commander in Chief and his loyalists think it is okay to possibly kick these true Americans out of the civilian workforce, 200,000 patriots. These are combat veterans. These are experts. Back home, the Rock Island Arsenal cannot deal with this. Mr.
Biography
Eric Sorensen, a former meteorologist, brings his science communication expertise to Congress as the U.S. Representative for Illinois’s 17th District, first elected in 2022. Sorensen focuses on strengthening rural healthcare access, advancing climate resilience, and advocating for working families. He authored legislation expanding mental health resources in underserved areas and serves on the House Committee on Agriculture. Sorensen approaches public service with a pragmatic, data-driven mindset, working to ensure his district’s communities are prepared and supported in the face of evolving challenges.
Education
- B.S., Northern Illinois University, DeKalb, IL1999
Professional History
U.S. Representative
2023–PresentRepresented Illinois's 17th congressional district for 2 terms.
Meteorologist
1999–2021
Policy Focus
Armed Forces and National Security21%
Science, Technology, Communications21%
Government Operations and Politics16%
Agriculture and Food11%
Notable Legislation
Key legislative actions from Eric Sorensen's record in Congress.
Rural Health Care Funding
Secured federal funding to support rural hospitals and expand healthcare access in Illinois’ 17th District.
Agriculture Research Support
Helped obtain resources for agricultural research at local universities to benefit Illinois farmers.
Veterans Mental Health Services
Advocated for increased mental health services and resources for veterans in his district.
Disaster Recovery Assistance
Worked to deliver federal disaster recovery aid to communities impacted by severe weather in Illinois.
Committee Assignments
View details →- House Committee on Agriculture
- House Committee on Armed Services
Rep. Eric Sorensen FAQ
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Representative Sorensen focuses on Armed Forces and National Security, Science, Technology, Communications and Government Operations and Politics. Deliver personalized constituent letters to Illinois's federal, state, and local officials — live in under five minutes.
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