Eric Sorensen

U.S. Rep. Cheri Bustos (D-Moline) has represented a large swath of central, western, and northern Illinois for the past decade. She decided not to run for another term this cycle.

Sorensen, a former television meteorologist in Rockford and the Quad Cities, defeated Republican Esther Joy King by about four points in the district.

Democrat Eric Sorensen has declared victory in the 17th Congressional District. His opponent, Republican Esther Joy King, has not conceded.

Republican candidate Esther Joy King and Democratic nominee Eric Sorensen are vying for the open seat held by retiring Democratic U.S. Rep. Cheri Bustos.

Republican Esther Joy King is counting on kitchen table economic issues to carry her to victory in her second run for the northwestern and central Illinois congressional district

The race for Illinois' 17th Congressional District this November is considered a true competitive toss-up.