Letter to the Editor: Julie Bickelhaupt Is the Republican Who Can Win
As Republicans, we have an important choice to make in this primary. If we want to defeat Eric Sorensen in November [2026], we must nominate a candidate who reflects our values and has a record to prove it. That candidate is Julie Bickelhaupt.
Julie is a lifelong Illinoisan, seventh-generation farmer, small business owner, and proven community leader, who currently serves on the county board. She is the only candidate who lives in the 17th Congressional District. She works here, pays taxes here, and is raising her family here. She understands firsthand what rising costs, burdensome regulations, and higher taxes are doing to families and farmers, because she experiences it herself.
She’s also the only candidate in this race who has never voted to raise taxes. Julie is running for Congress, because families here deserve common-sense leadership, not Washington’s dysfunction. Her plan is clear: lower the cost of living; defend agriculture; and make sure every child has access to a strong education and a bright future.
If we are serious about defeating Eric Sorensen in November, we must nominate someone who is invested in the district and presents a clear contrast on taxes, spending, and values.
Julie Bickelhaupt is that candidate. For those reasons, I proudly support her and encourage others to do the same.
Tony McCombie, IL House District 89
IL House Republican Leader