Eric Sorensen

Candidate Q&A

Why are you running?

For over twenty years, I was the weatherman for the people of Northwestern Illinois. I earned the trust of my neighbors by telling the truth every day and keeping our communities safe from severe weather. I have brought that trust to Congress and secured over $2. 7 million in bipartisan funding for substance abuse treatment, health care local law enforcement, and education. I am running for re-election to continue to be a trusted voice for my neighbors on the issues that impact their everyday lives.

How has your district been impacted by the migrant crisis and what do you think should be done?

Central & Northwestern Illinois, like all communities, have been impacted by our broken immigration system and the smuggling of deadly synthetic drugs across our borders. We need to work together, across party lines, to secure our border and fix this broken system. I've been a bipartisan leader on this issue and introduced amendments that will stop the smuggling of fentanyl by strengthening our southern border with investments in 500 new U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers.

What do you think immigration reform in Congress should look like?

I support a pathway to citizenship. I have been a vocal supporter of the DREAM Act because we need to ensure that people and children are able to stay in the only country they've known. Migrant farmworkers are an essential part of the economy in farm communities like Central Northwestern Illinois and we must make sure they are supported and protected. I also strongly believe criminals must be sought on an individual basis and we must secure our southern border to keep our neighbors and communities safe.

How important is bipartisanship to you and what issues have you worked on across the aisle or with people who don't uniformly share your beliefs?

It is essential that leaders in Congress work in a bipartisan manner. My neighbors in Central & Northwestern Illinois don't care about what party you are - they want their leaders to work together and they want results on the issues that impact their lives everyday - lowering the cost of prescription drugs, expanding broadband access, improving infrastructure, and strengthening our healthcare.

What action, if any, do you want to see next on abortion access after the Dobbs decision?

We need to codify reproductive rights into law and make sure that everyone is able to receive the healthcare services they need. Healthcare decisions must be made between an individual and their doctor, not politicians or judges.

Did Joe Biden legitimately win the 2020 presidential race?

Yes

Should the United States provide Ukraine with money in its fight against Russia?

Yes

Should the United States provide Ukraine with aid in the form of military supplies?

Yes

Should the U.S. provide Israel with money in its fight against Hamas?

Yes

Should the United States provide Israel with aid in the form of military supplies in its fight against Hamas?

Yes

Should there be a law requiring background checks on all gun sales?

Yes

Should Congress pass a federal law banning semi-automatic assault-style weapons and large-capacity magazines to help address gun violence?

Yes