Galesburg Reporter

Judge Joe McGraw, the Republican nominee for Illinois House Congressional District 17, recently pledged to prioritize Illinois residents, restore law and order, protect jobs, and reduce costs. He made these commitments in a Facebook post as he prepares to challenge incumbent Democrat Eric Sorensen in the general election.

"McGraw: 'My goal is simple -- ensure Illinois is the best place to live, work, and raise a family," said Judge Joe Mcgraw, Republican House District 17 candidate, according to Facebook. "87 counties in Illinois decreased in population during 2023. That's why I'll fight to put Illinoisans first, restore law & order, defend our jobs, & bring down costs. Cook County 2nd-worst in U.S. as 87 of 102 Illinois counties lose population."

In his social media post, McGraw shared an article from Illinois Policy dated March 14. The article discussed Cook County's ranking and the population decline in numerous Illinois counties. It highlighted that Illinois had experienced a decrease in population for ten consecutive years. In 2023 alone, the state lost over 32,000 residents from 87 counties. Most of this decline was attributed to Cook County. According to data from the U.S. Census Bureau cited by Illinois Policy, this single county lost 24,494 residents. Among the top five counties nationwide that saw a population decrease, Cook County ranks second, trailing only Los Angeles County in California.

Screenshot of Judge Joe McGraw's March 20 Facebook post | Judge Joe McGraw Facebook page

McGraw expressed his disappointment with Biden and Sorensen for their lack of effective action on these issues. He underscored his commitment to being a staunch advocate for safety and security in Illinois' 17th district.

"Biden and Sorensen have failed to take any real action to secure the border, take on drug cartels and human traffickers, and stop the massive influx of fentanyl, which is killing so many Americans," McGraw said. "I’m running for Congress so the families of Illinois’ 17th district have a strong and unwavering voice for their safety and security."

Having previously served as a prosecutor, private attorney, and retired Circuit Court judge, McGraw officially announced his candidacy for the 17th Congressional District in mid-October. He is set to challenge incumbent U.S. Rep. Eric Sorensen (D-Ill.), who narrowly won in 2022. As reported by Pantagraph, McGraw's campaign strongly emphasizes law-and-order principles. He utilizes 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 encompasses 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 took 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 so far.