Rock Island Today

Judge Joe McGraw, a candidate for the 17th Congressional District, has announced the formation of his Law Enforcement Coalition in a significant development for his congressional campaign. The coalition boasts endorsements from 10 county sheriffs and various law enforcement professionals across the extensive 17th congressional district.

The coalition, demonstrating McGraw’s dedication to public safety, includes notable endorsements from Winnebago County Sheriff Gary Caruana, Stephenson County Sheriff Steve Stovall, Henry County Sheriff Joshua Verscheure, Knox County Sheriff Jack Harlan, McDonough County Sheriff Nicholas Petitgout, McLean County Sheriff Matthew Lane, Warren County Sheriff Martin Edwards, Peoria County Sheriff Christopher Watkins, Mercer County Sheriff Dustin Terrill and Carroll County Sheriff Ryan Kloepping.

"Proud to announce the launch of our Law Enforcement Coalition! #BackTheBlue," McGraw announced on Facebook.

McGraw expressed humility at the substantial support he is receiving from the law enforcement community. As a former prosecutor and judge, he underscored the vital role that local law enforcement plays in ensuring community safety.

"With crime on the rise, it's critical that we support our men and women in blue," McGraw said in a press release announcing the coalition.

McGraw holds that county sheriffs recognize that the 17th district needs a representative who will collaborate with local law enforcement to foster safer communities. He also voiced his concern about national security and immigration issues.

"As your next congressman, I will seek solutions to our border issues and make public safety one of my top priorities," he stated.

McGraw plans to expand the Law Enforcement Coalition further by utilizing the knowledge and expertise of these professionals throughout his campaign and potentially as a member of Illinois’ congressional delegation if elected.

Pantagraph reported that McGraw declared his candidacy for the 17th Congressional District in mid-October. He aims to challenge incumbent U.S. Rep. Eric Sorensen (D-Ill.), who narrowly won the 17th District in 2022. His campaign prioritizes law-and-order principles, leveraging his judicial background to address urban crime and immigration. 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 encompasses Carroll, Fulton, Henry, Knox, McDonough, Mercer, McLean, Peoria, Rock Island, Stephenson, Tazewell, Warren, Whiteside and Winnebago counties. According to the Census Bureau, the district currently has a population of more than 740,000. Incumbent U.S. Rep Eric Sorensen is seeking re-election to represent Illinois’ 17th Congressional District.