ROCKFORD — Area Republicans and supporters of congressional candidate Dillan Vancil gathered Aug. 27 outside the city's Veterans Memorial Hall to hear Vancil speak about his campaign.

Vancil is challenging incumbent Democrat Eric Sorensen in the November 2026 election for Illinois' 17th Congressional District.

"I'll never forget where I came from, and I'll never stop working for you," Vancil said. "Sellout Eric Sorenson does not represent the value of Rockford."

Vancil's platform centers on issues like reducing the cost of living, protecting Illinois agriculture, championing small businesses, igniting America's energy independence and fixing Illinois' education system.

Vancil was born and raised in western Illinois. According to his campaign website, he's the owner of Dame Fine Coffee,

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