Jobs, Small Business, and the Economy

So many of our neighbors feel left behind, like the economy isn’t working for them – and they’re right. That’s why I’ve centered my work in Congress around building an economy that helps Illinois working families.
Tackling Inflation and Lowering Costs - My top priority is addressing rising costs that are hurting Illinoisans from the grocery store to the gas pump. I’m also committed to bringing down out-of-control drug prices, especially for our seniors.
Jobs – Illinois 17th District has been a hub of manufacturing and innovation for generations, in addition to having a rich farming history. I will always work to create good-paying, sustainable jobs in our communities so we can provide for our kids and grandkids.
Small Business – We need to make it easier to start and own a small business. This means cutting red tape and making sure Illinoisians have access to the resources they need to succeed. I’ll make sure Congress keeps the needs of Main Street in mind, and not just the interests of the wealthiest corporations.
More on Jobs, Small Business, and the Economy
Congressman Eric Sorensen (IL-17) issued the following statement in response to Republicans’ passing their ‘Big Billionaire Bailout,’ which gives massive tax breaks to the rich off by cutting health care and food assistance for working families.
Congressman Eric Sorensen (IL-17) joined Secretary of the Army, Daniel Driscoll, and other senior military and elected leaders to tour the Rock Island Arsenal amid concerns that hundreds of jobs may be cut. During the visit, Congressman Sorensen highlighted the work of the men and women at the Arsenal who do critical jobs to safeguard our national security.
Congressman Eric Sorensen (IL-17) sent a letter to the House Appropriations Committee urging them to fund the Critical Supply Chain Site Development Grant Program at the Department of Commerce in the Fiscal Year 2026 Appropriations bills with $50 million. The Critical Supply Chain Site Development Program provides grants to local communities for site readiness improvements, such as connecting sites to utilities, completing environmental reviews, and investing in workforce training.
Congressman Sorensen has submitted the following funding requests for important community projects in Illinois’ 17th Congressional District to the House Appropriations Committee.
Today, Congressman Eric Sorensen (IL-17) voted no against Republican’s partisan big billionaire bailout that makes massive cuts to the SNAP food assistance program and Medicaid health insurance to pay for a huge tax break for billionaires.
WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman Eric Sorensen (IL-17) has joined a bipartisan group of lawmakers to reintroduce the Youth Lead Act, a bill aimed at helping youth organizations like the Future Farmers of America (FFA), 4-H, and the Scouts continue to grow and thrive. The legislation highlights the importance of building leadership and life skills in young people across the country.
Congressman Eric Sorensen (IL-17) visited Kewanee’s Main Street for a walking tour with Mayor Gary Moore. The visit was an opportunity for the Congressman to hear directly from small business leaders about their successes, challenges, and how federal resources can better support economic growth in the region.