Sen. Duckworth Addressing Rising Cost of Living, Voting During QCA Visit

September 7, 2026

Emily Cummings, Birth to Five Illinois: Region 49 Council Manager, joined Senator Tammy Duckworth at this roundtable to discuss child care affordability and access issues for families in Rock Island County.

Original coverage in KWQC by Mary Alexander.

Even on a holiday, economic affordability and the rising cost of living remain the primary topics of conversation for people in the Quad Cities Area — and on Monday they had the opportunity to voice those concerns directly to a key decision-maker.

U.S. Sen. Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.) visited the area to hear firsthand from residents facing significant economic pressures. The visit comes as new economic data reveals the average Illinois household now pays more than $4,200 annually for everyday essential goods and services.

During the event, local residents expressed deep worries regarding several federal policies. Key issues raised included the impact of Medicaid cuts under Donald Trump’s administration, the ongoing effects of international tariffs, and the broader economic stability of working families.

With the crucial midterm elections less than two months away, Senator Duckworth emphasized that younger generations need to actively participate in shaping their financial and social futures.

Duckworth spoke passionately about the importance of electoral participation, warning that sitting out of an election is equivalent to accepting current hardships.

“Their votes matter more than ever now, and remember not voting is a vote for the status quo. So, if they like the way things are now—lack of housing, things are too expensive, student loan debt—then don’t vote,” Senator Duckworth stated.

Following her discussions with local residents, Senator Duckworth pledged to carry these stories back to Washington, D.C., promising to keep fighting for the needs and economic relief of families across Illinois.