Rock Island Today

Judge Joe McGraw, a candidate for the 17th Congressional District, has taken a definitive position on border security emphasizing that the issue transcends party lines and demanding action from do-nothing politicians. McGraw called out his opponent, U.S. Rep. Eric Sorensen (D-Ill.), accusing him of playing games with the critical matter of securing the southern border. 

“Border security isn’t a Republican or Democrat issue,” McGraw said on Facebook. “Do-nothing politicians like Eric Sorensen have played games with this topic for long enough.”

“I’m running to restore law & order at the southern border, and when I get to Congress, IL-17 families won’t take a backseat to anyone.”

McGraw’s comments were made in light of the recent incident where nearly 800 illegal immigrants were dropped off in a single day in the Chicago suburbs. Furthermore, planes carrying hundreds of illegal immigrants have been landing at Chicago Rockford International Airport. According to Prairie State Wire, the frequency of daily drop-offs throughout Illinois has often exceeded 10 instances with notable destinations including Lombard, West Chicago, Wheaton, and Glen Ellyn among others.

McGraw announced his candidacy for the 17th Congressional District in mid-October. His professional background includes roles as a prosecutor, private attorney, and retired Circuit Court judge. He is set to challenge incumbent U.S. Rep. Eric Sorensen (D-Ill.), who narrowly won in 2022. According to Pantagraph, McGraw's campaign strongly emphasizes law-and-order principles; he uses his extensive judicial experience to address issues related to urban crime and immigration. His policy positions include advocating for the construction of a border wall, endorsing comprehensive immigration reform, and supporting state regulation over federal intervention in abortion-related matters.

The 17th Congressional District includes Carroll, Fulton, Henry, Knox, McDonough, Mercer, McLean, Peoria, Rock Island, Stephenson, Tazewell, Warren, Whiteside and Winnebago counties. Sorensen, who currently represents the district, assumed office last year and is seeking re-election to the U.S. House. As per Ballotpedia, Sorensen is presently the only Democrat candidate for the 17th District for the March 19 primary.