WATCH: Sorensen Underscores Importance of Weather Forecasting to National Security

Image May 14, 2026 Press Release Watch the Congressman’s Questioning HERE WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman Eric Sorensen, member of the House Armed Services Committee and meteorologist, pressed U.S. Navy leadership about the importance of weather forecasting and dangers of staffing cuts at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) to our national security. “Today, we heard directly from Navy leadership about how good weather forecasting and data is crucial to our national security and keeping our servicemembers safe,” said Congressman Eric Sorensen. “As the only meteorologist in Congress, I will continue to fight to ensure that the armed forces can continue to work with NOAA, and that we have the scientists and weather experts we need so that our armed forces can execute their missions safely.” Congressman Eric Sorensen represents Illinois’ 17th District in the United States House of Representatives. Prior to serving in Congress, Sorensen was a local meteorologist in Rockford and the Quad Cities for more than 20 years. His district includes Illinois’ Quad Cities, Rockford, Peoria, and Bloomington-Normal. ### Issues : Service Members and Defense