Congressman Sorensen Demands the Department of Defense Protect Critical National Security Jobs at the Rock Island Arsenal

Congressman Eric Sorensen (IL-17) fiercely advocated for protecting essential jobs at the Rock Island Arsenal during a House Armed Services Committee hearing amidst news reports suggesting the Department of Defense is planning a significant reduction in force at the Arsenal. 

The Arsenal plays a critical role in maintaining our country’s military readiness to combat threats around the globe and any potential layoffs threaten to hurt our national security. 

“Our mission here at the Arsenal is essential,” said Congressman Eric Sorensen. “At a time when we face all kinds of threats all across the globe, we need a strong civilian workforce that is supporting the Department of Defense and its readiness to maintain our country’s readiness. I strongly oppose civilian workforce cuts to the Rock Island Arsenal and across the Department of Defense.” 

Congressman Sorensen has taken advantage of his new position on the House Armed Services Committee to advocate for the Rock Island Arsenal. He recently led a bipartisan effort with Senators Chuck Grassley, Dick Durbin, and Tammy Duckworth to ensure the Department of Defense would not be jeopardizing our country’s military readiness with large job cuts. Earlier this year, he introduced the Arsenal Workload Sustainment Act, which would ensure the Rock Island Arsenal can remain competitive, create good-paying jobs, and sustain the regional economy. 

You can watch the full remarks from Congressman Sorensen HERE.