Illinois Democrat: The Sole Meteorologist in Congress, But There’s a Catch.
Eric Sorensen: The Cloudy Credentials of a Bold Congressman
On his fourth day in office, former television weatherman Rep. Eric Sorensen (D., Ill.) confidently proclaimed himself as the “Chief Meteorologist and climate communicator in Congress.” However, there’s a catch: Sorensen isn’t technically a meteorologist.
Despite working as a television “meteorologist” in northern Illinois for almost two decades before winning a House seat in 2022, there is no evidence that he ever obtained the necessary credentials or certifications to claim the title. According to federal standards, one must earn a Bachelor’s degree in meteorology to become a meteorologist. Sorensen only obtained a minor in meteorology from Northern Illinois University, as reported by the Quad City Times in 2021.
By his own standards, Sorensen’s lack of a Bachelor’s degree in meteorology raises doubts about his credibility on climate issues. In October, he belittled a Facebook user who correctly pointed out that the climate has fluctuated throughout Earth’s history, asking, “Interesting assessment. Where did you get your BS in Meteorology?”
“This kind of stuff is tiring, but it will never wear me out. I am proud to be the only Meteorologist in Congress, but who should be next?” Sorensen proudly declared on Twitter, along with a screenshot of the interaction.
This kind of stuff is tiring, but it will never wear me out. I am proud to be the only Meteorologist in Congress, but who should be next? #science #STEMeducation #PeopleOverPolitics pic.twitter.com/G99gJQOUPR
— Eric Sorensen (@ERICSORENSEN) October 4, 2023
Sorensen’s lack of scientific credentials and his history of mocking his own constituents could prove detrimental as he faces a tough reelection campaign in 2024. In 2022, Sorensen narrowly won his purple district by a 4-point margin, and Republicans are determined to reclaim his seat next year.
Sorensen also lacks certification from the American Meteorological Society, which grants legitimacy to television weathermen without meteorology degrees through additional training and testing. The society’s certification is a mark of “professional distinction and recognition,” instilling confidence in the public regarding the reliability of a weatherman’s forecasts.
Notably, Sorensen is absent from the American Meteorological Society’s list of certified broadcast meteorologists, both past and present.
According to former New York Times ethicist Chuck Klosterman, it is highly unethical, though not illegal, for weathercasters like Sorensen to falsely present themselves as legitimate meteorologists. In 2013, Klosterman wrote, “You should not call yourself a meteorologist unless other meteorologists agree that the designation is valid.”
It remains unclear if Sorensen has obtained certification from any other professional society or pursued any continuing education programs to justify his claim of being a meteorologist. His office did not respond to requests for comment.
Sorensen’s lack of credentials hasn’t stopped him from asserting more than 20 times on social media that he is the only “meteorologist” in Congress.
“After 22 years in TV, I’m now the only Meteorologist in Congress!” he proudly announced on Twitter in March. “Time to blind them all with science.”
How does congressman Eric Sorensen’s lack of a Bachelor’s degree in meteorology impact his credibility and expertise on climate issues?
Hundreds of thousands of people in Congress have been elected to represent their constituents in a variety of fields, from law to business to medicine. However, it seems that the credentials of one bold congressman may not be as solid as he claims.
On his fourth day in office, former television weatherman Eric Sorensen proudly proclaimed himself as the ”Chief Meteorologist and climate communicator in Congress.” This statement, while confident, raises some important questions about Sorensen’s qualifications.
Although he worked as a television “meteorologist” in northern Illinois for almost two decades before winning a House seat in 2022, there is no evidence to suggest that Sorensen ever obtained the necessary credentials or certifications to claim the title of meteorologist. According to federal standards, one must earn a Bachelor’s degree in meteorology to become a meteorologist. However, Sorensen only obtained a minor in meteorology from Northern Illinois University, as reported by the Quad City Times in 2021.
By his own standards, Sorensen’s lack of a Bachelor’s degree in meteorology raises doubts about his credibility on climate issues. It is concerning that someone who is not technically a meteorologist would confidently position themselves as a climate communicator in Congress.
In October, Sorensen belittled a Facebook user who correctly pointed out that the climate has fluctuated throughout Earth’s history. He responded by asking, “Interesting assessment. Where did you get your BS in Meteorology?” This response is ironic, considering that Sorensen himself does not possess the necessary educational background to speak authoritatively on the subject.
Sorensen’s claims of being the “only Meteorologist in Congress” might be a point of pride for him, but it is essential to have individuals in positions of power who possess the expertise and qualifications to address complex issues such as climate change. In a time when science and climate issues are of utmost importance, it is crucial to have informed and well-qualified individuals shaping policies.
While Sorensen’s time as a television weatherman may have provided him with valuable insights and experience, it is essential to acknowledge the limitations of his credentials. The role of a meteorologist goes beyond simply reporting on the weather—it requires a deep understanding of meteorological science and the ability to analyze and interpret data accurately.
As constituents, it is imperative that we hold our elected officials to high standards of credibility and expertise. The position of a congressman carries great responsibility, particularly when addressing complex and pressing issues such as climate change. It is crucial that those who claim to be experts in a field possess the necessary qualifications to back up their claims.
In conclusion, the credentials of congressman Eric Sorensen, the self-proclaimed “Chief Meteorologist and climate communicator in Congress,” are unclear and raise doubts about his credibility on climate issues. While his experience as a television weatherman may be valuable, it is crucial to have individuals with the proper educational background and expertise in positions of power when addressing complex issues like climate change. As constituents, we must hold our elected officials accountable for their qualifications and ensure that they are equipped to make informed decisions on our behalf.
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