Lowering your cost of living has always been my biggest priority, which is why I’m leading Federal legislation that makes home ownership more attainable and affordable. Let’s do this!
Official account. 🌤️ Meteorologist representing Central and Northwestern Illinois in Congress. #IL17
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Lowering your cost of living has always been my biggest priority, which is why I’m leading Federal legislation that makes home ownership more attainable and affordable. Let’s do this!
Honored to present a Good Neighbor Certificate to Michele Pankow, Rockford’s first woman Fire Chief and now our State Fire Marshal. Her leadership is breaking barriers and keeping Rockford safe.
Great visit and tour to Four Rivers Sanitation Authority! Their innovative work in wastewater treatment keeps our communities healthy and strong. Thank you to State Reps. Maurice West and Dave Vella, State Senator Steve Stadelman, and Winnebago County Chairman Joe Chiarelli for joining!
Here’s an important resource you need to know about that can offset high utility bills. If you need help, please reach out to the Help Illinois Families Assistance Hotline at 833-711-0374 or visit HelpIllinoisFamilies.com
Proud to join the Rockford Police Department as they swore in 12 new officers and celebrated a new deputy chief. Thank you for your service and commitment to keeping our community safe!
It’s inspiring to see the innovation happening at the 2025 Farm Progress Show! I am even more driven thanks to the farmers, entrepreneurs, and experts who drive the industry forward. It’s also important we get rid of the terrible tariff failure that is hurting our farmers.
Made in America? How can we if Caterpillar and Deere must pay tariffs to do business? I am leading legislation that puts a check on the Trump Administration’s trade war that is failing us here at home. www.reuters.com/business/cat...
What an inspiring story from one #IL17’s own! Harlem’s own Jiharia Young is showing the nation what strength and perseverance look like. We’re proud to cheer her on as she competes for Youth Athlete of the Year! www.mystateline.com/news/we-face...
Today I stood with AFSCME members, families, and seniors to call out the so-called “Big Beautiful Bill.” There is nothing beautiful about cutting health care for kids and seniors, slashing food assistance for veterans and working families, and handing out tax breaks to billionaires.
It’s a beautiful day in Peoria, especially when you can get a kickin’ flatbread from Sugar!
No data? No science. This isn’t just backwards, it’s dangerous. Especially for children and young people who need to inherit a living world from us. cnn.com/2025/08/20/wea…
Before harvest, I wanted to make sure to bring farmers around the table again. Many thanks to everyone who attended in Freeport. We discussed working beyond the leftovers of the Farm Bill, and what we need to focus on in 2026 and beyond.
🤚Raise your hand if you’ve heard of an “Anaerobic Digester” before. Its okay if you haven’t. But when you learn how to take animal waste and turn it into energy, it’s a no-brainer! Many thanks to the folks at Hunter Haven Farms in Pearl City and the Illinois Farm Bureau for the tour!
www.farmweeknow.com/youth_in_ag/...
Congratulations to Illinois FFA members, Blake, Nevin, and Delana for being named National FFA Star Finalists this year!
Have you seen this video from the eye of Hurricane Erin? Grateful to their important work to fly through hurricanes so we can better forecast their paths. I was able to tour the planes, meet the pilots, and say thank you to the “Hurricane Hunters” before the season started.
www.shawlocal.com/news/2025/08...
Every family deserves the peace of mind that when the most dangerous weather threatens, they will be protected. It costs families less than $5 per year to fund the National Weather Service and I am proud to lead the fight to save it from this reckless administration.
It’s time for more Viewer Mail!!! And watch to the end to see how YOU can ask your questions.
One of my favorite things from Illinois in my house. đźš‚
It’s time for more Viewer Mail!!! And watch to the end to see how YOU can ask your questions.
Is it me, or is it a bit echo-ey in here?
www.cbsnews.com/chicago/news...
Let's go Illinois!
Random things from #IL17 around my house!
Nearly 29 years have passed since young Trudy Appleby vanished from Moline. My heart is with Trudy’s family and everyone who has carried her memory through the decades, and I stand with our community in the hope that this brings them some measure of peace. www.wqad.com/article/news...
2/2 I joined a letter calling on Secretary of State Marco Rubio to ensure Palestinians can safely reach U.S. aid. If America leads with its ideals, we must ensure that the suffering ends and the road to recovery begins for the entire region.
1/2 Everything must be done to achieve peace in the Middle East and an immediate end to the suffering in Gaza. Israel and Prime Minister Netanyahu must show the world that there are means to an end of the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
Social Security is a promise to you that if you pay in, you’ll get the benefits when you need them. It’s been 90 years since FDR created Social Security, and I am committed to protecting and strengthening it for you and future generations.
🎡🌽 From the butter cow to the best fair food — here are my 5 must-dos at the Illinois State Fair! What’s your favorite Illinois State Fair tradition?
I’m committed to bringing American manufacturing back to #IL17, but we’re not going to do it by jacking up the price of basic needs in the process. Small businesses and real families are paying the price of Trump’s stupid tariffs and I’m always fighting back.
www.brownfieldagnews.com/news/new-leg...
My bipartisan legislation will put money into the pockets of our farmers who are leading the way to better soil health. Let’s go!
www.wqad.com/article/news...
I spent 22 years in small-market television. Trust me, there isn’t any more fat to be trimmed in local TV. I’ve always championed local public television and in Congress will always stand up for the communication of important information. PBS and NPR stations are essential, not optional.
Our country is stronger because of our unions. 400,000+ workers are helping veterans who have served our country. They should be supported, not slapped in the face.
www.youtube.com/watch?v=c4aI...
Had a chance to flex my climate and weather science knowledge on the Science Quickly podcast to share why it is important we support @noaa.gov and @nws.noaa.gov. Listen:
centralillinoisproud.com/news/local-n...
The reason soup kitchens need more volunteers today is because the House GOP has gutted food security from tens of thousands of people, right in our district. These are real people. Neighbors. One of the most American things we can do is help those in need. I believe in that. Do you?
🌽🚜 #AgDay at the Illinois State Fair — there’s nothing like it! Agriculture is the backbone of Illinois, and today was all about celebrating the farmers, ranchers, and ag leaders who keep our state growing. It was a day full of pride for our ag community (and yes, a little fair food too).
www.cnn.com/2025/08/05/w...
Our voices matter! This is what happens when you speak up and fight back hard enough. Ever since the unelected bureaucrats began cutting meteorologists @NOAA and @NWS, I led the bipartisan effort to roll them back. So happy to help deliver this win!
Who could’ve predicted this? Maybe nearly every person who took an Econ class in high school. Heavy-handed and short-sighted tariffs are hurting American manufacturing – not helping. It’s about time @POTUS figures that out before he starts killing the jobs of everyone but his rich friends.
I’m following the terrible events in Georgia where five U.S. Army soldiers were shot earlier today. We must do everything we can to lower the risk of violence with guns. Everyone should be supportive of initiatives to keep people connected to healthcare so no one reaches for a gun. 📸WXIA-TV
Great speaking with The Contrarian about my journey to Congress and the fight to address our changing climate! Watch my full interview here: contrarian.substack.com/p/rep-eric-s...
This is what happens when we keep pushing! After months of speaking on the importance of weather forecasting, the Pentagon WILL keep sharing critical hurricane tracking satellite data with NOAA. So proud to have had a hand in protecting this. www.washingtonpost.com/weather/2025...
Lowering greenhouse gas emissions is a necessary step to making sure our kids and grandkids have a future of prosperity. The Trump Administration’s attempts to dissolve the EPA’s standards is reckless and will cause irreparable harm. www.npr.org/2025/07/29/n...
My full statement on Rep. Danny Davis' retirement:
2/2 Always amazing how the extreme right will believe any made-up conspiracy theory, but not basic science.
1/2 While the U.S. deals with more extreme storms due to a warming climate system, some in Washington are wasting our time with stupid bills about “chemtrails.” I’d be happy to share some meteorology lessons if anyone is interested. www.nbcnews.com/politics/pol...
There are few things more annoying than being left on hold or getting an automated response when calling for help. I’m proud to lead House Democrats on this issue and demanding answers. We won’t accept long waits on the phone, busy signals, layoffs and closed offices.
2/2 Our office is committed to supporting family-owned businesses like West Side that help drive our local economy and keep Illinois moving forward.
1/2 Great visit with the team at West Side Tractor in Rockford! I got a first-hand look at their impressive operation and had a thoughtful conversation about the challenges and opportunities facing the equipment industry.
2/2 It was an honor to present Ms. Zina Horton with a Good Neighbor Certificate to celebrate this incredible milestone. Her passion, warmth, and dedication to the community are as sweet as the granita itself. P.s. Ask for the “Unusual!” So good!
1/2 Visited Zammuto’s in Rockford — and WOW, what a treat! 🍧 I got a behind-the-scenes look at how this beloved family-run business has been serving up their legendary Italian ice for 100 years!
Thank you to those who took the time out of their busy day to come to my in-person Town Hall in Rockford. These conversations aren’t always easy, but they’re important. I can’t do the work of the people without your voice. So, thank you again for bringing your thoughts, concerns, and questions.
While my sister was the big 4H’er in my family, I spent a lot of time in barns and at fairs when I was a kid. And today, we are moving agriculture forward in Illinois with new innovations, rooted from important traditions.
In the House Agriculture Committee, I saluted the hundreds of local youth involved in 4H and FFA who represent the best of #IL17. Thank you to all farm families for passing down traditional values of animal stewardship rooted in responsibility, compassion, and hard work.
2/2 Andrew Jackson Smith was a man who overcame slavery, defended his country, and was recognized for his efforts through receiving a Medal of Honor. www.wglt.org/local-news/2...
1/2 Even amidst the chaos in Washington, I still find opportunities to work across the aisle. I stand with Congressman Darin LaHood in renaming the VA Clinic in Bloomington to honor a Union patriot who fought to keep our country united during the Civil War.
95% of older Americans say they have gotten a robocall from a scammer in the last year – insane! I am urging Speaker Johnson to pass my bipartisan QUIET Act, which would crack down on AI robocalls that are targeting millions of Americans. Let’s make annoying robocalls a thing of the past.
2/2 Hamas must be defeated, but now is the time to urgently negotiate a lasting peace. www.washingtonpost.com/world/2025/0...
1/2 Millions of innocent people are starving in Gaza. If we don’t do anything soon, thousands will die. We desperately need to bring home the hostages while allowing enough food, water, and medical supplies into Gaza to help those who have nothing to do with this war.
www.25newsnow.com/2025/07/24/f...
For years, I have been so impressed with our local leaders working to bring emergency vehicles to Ukraine. Imagine the sight when you are desperate for help against Russia and a Peoria, Illinois fire truck pulls up!
Mary, I'm so glad you enjoyed your time in DC! Big thanks to my team for helping setup a great tour! Remember you can always reach our offices by contacting sorensen.house.gov
Our district team had the honor of attending the ceremony to designate I-74 in the Illinois Quad Cities as the Rep. Lane Evans Memorial Highway. Congressman Evans’ tireless advocacy for veterans and working families lives on in a legacy we will never forget.
Rockford, I’m coming your way this Monday evening for an in-person Town Hall at the Chicago Rockford International Airport (RFD) ! I want to hear what matters most to you. RSVP here: www.eventbrite.com/e/town-hall-...
Read more here: www.eenews.net/articles/hou...
Why would the Department of Defense discontinue a decades-long practice of sharing critical satellite weather data during peak hurricane season? I introduced and passed legislation that will force them to come clean on this decision.
Oliver is in the House!
Every American deserves: 💰Fair wages 👷🏼‍♀️Safe workplaces 🩺Good benefits 🧰Dignity on the job Proud to speak in the Armed Services Committee on behalf of my hard-working neighbors who help keep America strong 🇺🇸
A few weeks ago, Rockford’s sister city, Brovary, Ukraine was attacked fiercely by Russia. I am so proud to stand up for both cities in the House Armed Services Committee. We must be as clear as possible: Putin must never win the war against Ukraine.
I’m working to ensure the Rock Island Arsenal has the support it needs here in Washington to continue to thrive. It’s important to make sure we support the workers who protect our nation’s national security.
I didn’t earn the trust of the people by hyping things up or fear-mongering. Truth is, facts are important. So why would Congress make a rule that limits the Defense Department from working with fact-checkers? Here are my thoughts from the House Armed Services Committee:
Best place to have serious conversation about water and soil quality, as well as preserving habitat for wildlife? It’s on the Rock River. Big thanks to Jessica, Lou, and Eric for sharing their expertise of conservation out the water.
Thank you to everyone who took time to speak with me at my telephone town hall! Our conversations were an excellent reminder of why you sent me to Washington - to listen, learn, and fight for your rights. You can watch a full recording of the town hall here: www.youtube.com/watch?v=vGZV...
Joined Kelly O’Donnell on NBC News to talk about the weather tragedy in Texas. As the only meteorologist in Congress, I know how deadly these can be. For 22+ years, I kept my neighbors safe when flash floods, tornadoes, severe hail and wind threatened. www.nbcnews.com/meet-the-pre...
Touring Project NOW’s Head Start, I saw what’s really at stake. ➡️ 90% of these kids need Medicaid ➡️ 61% need SNAP When funding for programs gets cut, it’s not just numbers. Our children deserve better. No matter what happens in Washington, I’ll keep fighting to put children and families first.
Happy Independence Day! Today we celebrate the courage, unity, and resilience that built this country. Let’s honor our freedoms by continuing the work to build a more fair, just, and inclusive America — for everyone. Wishing you a safe and joyful 4th of July!
My statement after voting no on this bill:
It’s almost like Mother Nature doesn’t want us to pass this terrible bill! I’m not gonna let a little severe weather keep me in Chicago when you need me to do your work in Washington! Next stop…Richmond?
The Senate passed the worst legislation for working families in a generation. 🏥 Kicking 17 MILLION off their health insurance 🥫Taking $300 BILLION worth of food from hungry people 💰Jacking up the debt by $4 TRILLION I’m on the plane to Washington to vote HELL NO when this bill gets to the House.
Sexual assault is an uncomfortable topic, but it’s important to address. Thanks to the Illinois Coalition Against Sexual Assault for meeting with me on solutions, instead of just “thoughts and prayers.” We need champions in Congress who are willing to do the hard work to combat sexual violence.
As a proud member of the FFA Caucus and House Agriculture Committee, it’s the best day when I get to speak with my friends in the Illinois FFA and 4-H. Congrats to each of you and your chapters and thank you to Illinois Farm Bureau for providing the incredible opportunity!
The Secretary of Defense should focus on our troops instead of renaming ships because the history doesn’t align with his awful personal views.
Today is the day! We are launching our official BlueSky page! It’s important to be connected wherever you are! Come give me a follow to continue staying up-to-date on what I’m doing in Washington and IL-17.