Rock Island Today

Judge Joe McGraw, a candidate for the 17th Congressional District, has underscored the pressing need for a holistic strategy to confront Illinois' alarming position as the sixth-highest state in the nation for fentanyl-related fatalities. His proposed solution includes border security enhancement, intensified action against drug dealers, and improved recovery alternatives for individuals battling addiction.

“Illinois recently ranked #6 in fentanyl deaths,” McGraw said on Facebook. “We need an all-of-the-above strategy to turn this around.”

“That has to include securing our border, cracking down on drug dealers, and improving recovery options for individuals struggling with addiction.”

A recent report by Families Against Fentanyl reveals that Illinois ranks sixth in the nation for fentanyl-related deaths over the past year. The study used data from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). It unveils the destructive impact of fentanyl in Illinois, with nearly 3,000 families losing loved ones to fentanyl poisonings, according to a news release.

Moira Muntz, a spokesperson for Families Against Fentanyl, highlighted the nationwide crisis in an interview with The Center Square. Muntz cited CDC estimates of over 111,000 drug overdose deaths in the 12-month period ending in April, with more than 77,000 involving fentanyl and synthetic opioids. The organization is actively urging President Joe Biden to establish a dedicated White House Task Force to address the fentanyl poisoning crisis.

"Just devastated and heartbroken by the loss of their loved ones and it’s happening far too often to far too many families so our goal is to raise awareness and to put pressure on lawmakers in Washington to take further action," Muntz told The Center Square.

McGraw announced his candidacy for the 17th Congressional District in mid-October as a former prosecutor, private attorney, and retired Circuit Court judge. He aims to challenge incumbent U.S. Rep. Eric Sorensen (D-Ill.), who narrowly won the 17th District in 2022. According to Pantagraph, McGraw's campaign emphasizes law-and-order principles, using his judicial background to address urban crime and immigration issues. His policy positions include supporting a border wall, endorsing comprehensive immigration reform, and advocating for state regulation over federal involvement in abortion issues.

The 17th Congressional District comprises Carroll, Fulton, Henry, Knox, McDonough, Mercer, McLean, Peoria, Rock Island, Stephenson, Tazewell, Warren, Whiteside and Winnebago counties. Currently represented by Congressman Eric Sorensen (D-Ill.), who assumed office last year and is seeking re-election to the U.S. House. As per Ballotpedia's information, Sorensen is the only Democrat candidate for the 17th District for the upcoming March 19 primary.