Eric Sorensen

“I want the House to vote against this amendment. It could cut 200,000 civilian military jobs, including workers at the Rock Island Arsenal in my district, and put our troops at risk.”

“Mr. Chair, I rise today in strong opposition to the Grothman amendment. I am proud to live in an Army town and represent the historic Rock Island Arsenal in the House of Representatives. Every single one of my neighbors works to support our troops and make sure that our readiness and logistics keep our country safe. I find it outrageous that this Commander in Chief and his loyalists think it is okay to possibly kick these true Americans out of the civilian workforce, 200,000 patriots. These are combat veterans. These are experts. Back home, the Rock Island Arsenal cannot deal with this. Mr. Chair, I will not remain silent when this amendment is dropped at the eleventh hour to decimate our institution. Mr. Chair, I also can’t understand how anyone can call themselves America First when they offer plans to possibly throw men and women in uniform out just as casually as taking out the trash. These are patriots. Mr. Chair, allowing this to move forward wouldn’t just eliminate the jobs of 200,000 Americans, it would put our troops at risk, as well. I urge Republicans and Democrats to please honor them with a ``no’’ vote on amendment No. 316.”

“I want the House to vote against this amendment. Transgender people should be allowed to serve in the military. The only thing that should matter is whether a person can do the job.”

“Madam Chair, I rise today in strong opposition to Representative Boebert’s amendment. I am proud to live in an Army town, and I am the only LGBTQ person to serve on the House Committee on Armed Services. I find it outrageous that this Commander in Chief and his loyalists want to kick true Americans out of the military for a reason that does not pertain to a person’s capability as an effective soldier, sailor, airman, or marine--all because they think there is something inferior or less than if you are trans. We know what happens in our country when we lose the most qualified members. We saw it during Don’t Ask Don’t Tell. LGBTQ servicemembers are critical and essential to our Armed Forces. When any American is called to serve our country, there should be no requirements other than can you do the job and exceed the expectation. I really don’t understand how you can justify this. On one side, hiring should only be by merit, but then on the other side of your mouth, you only want harmful restrictions on those who are highly qualified for the work. One of the greatest things about being American is being one of many. In 250 years, we know the value of our country is marked by the service and the sacrifices of those who came before. Playing politics isn’t just cruel because it discriminates. It is cruel because it puts other servicemembers at risk. I urge my colleagues to reject this amendment because all Americans who serve should be able to serve with dignity, respect, and our Nation’s thanks.”