**UPDATED STORY**
Congressman Eric Sorensen (IL-17) issued the following statement in response to President Donald Trump’s joint address to Congress this evening.
“Every day I hear from my constituents who want me to find common sense solutions to lowering prices and securing the border. They want groceries to be cheaper, they want to afford their prescription drugs, and they want to afford a home to raise their kids in,” said Congressman Eric Sorensen. “They didn’t hear any of that from the President tonight. While he is indiscriminately firing hardworking Americans and starting unnecessary trade wars that will jack up prices, I will keep fighting to deliver on the issues my neighbors care about the most.”
Congressman Sorensen attended the State of the Union with James Diaz, a resident of Monmouth, Illinois. Diaz, a disabled veteran who served overseas during the Gulf conflicts of the 1980s and 1990s, was unexpectedly laid off in February 2025 as a result of actions taken by the Trump administration and Elon Musk.
Diaz joined the federal workforce in April of last year, bringing his commitment to service and expertise to his role as a Fuel Compliance Officer at the IRS field office in Galesburg. Despite his support for many of President Trump’s policy goals, Diaz has been vocal about his disappointment in how federal workers—particularly veterans—are being treated.
Brittany Hardaway
WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman Eric Sorensen announced today that his guest for the State of the Union address will be James Diaz, a resident of Monmouth, Illinois. Diaz, a disabled veteran who served overseas during the Gulf conflicts of the 1980s and 1990s, was unexpectedly laid off in February 2025 as a result of actions taken by the Trump administration and Elon Musk.
Congressman Sorensen’s decision to invite Diaz underscores his commitment to standing up for veterans and hardworking Americans. He aims to shed light on the impact of budget cuts and policy decisions that disregard the contributions of federal employees who have dedicated their lives to public service.
“James’ story is one that needs to be heard. He dedicated his life to serving our country, first in uniform and then in public service,” said Congressman Eric Sorensen. “It is unacceptable that those who sacrificed so much are being treated this way. I’m bringing James to the State of the Union to highlight the real impact of these dangerous and harmful budget cuts on hardworking Americans and veterans who deserve our respect and support.”
Diaz joined the federal workforce in April of last year, bringing his commitment to service and expertise to his role as a Fuel Compliance Officer at the IRS field office in Galesburg. Despite his support for many of President Trump’s policy goals, Diaz has been vocal about his disappointment in how federal workers—particularly veterans—are being treated.
“I’ve given my life to this country, and to be laid off without warning or respect is disheartening. I want to bring attention to how military veterans are being treated, especially when it comes to the way terminations are handled,” said James Diaz. “My notice of termination cited performance, and I know my performance was documented as excellent, yet we were treated like garbage. I understand the need to trim the fat, but you can’t treat people this way.”
The State of the Union address will take place Tuesday, March 4, 2025, and Congressman Sorensen hopes that by sharing Diaz’s story, he can advocate for fairer treatment of federal workers and highlight the need for a budget that prioritizes the well-being of our neighbors in Illinois-17.
