WREX: Local politicians react to Stellantis investment in Belvidere Assembly Plant
BELVIDERE, Ill. — Local lawmakers gave their thoughts on Stellantis' move to invest $600 million into the Belvidere Assembly Plant to produce two Jeep models in 2027.
Governor JB Pritzker celebrated the announcement as a victory for Illinois in a post on X.
"Today’s announcement from Stellantis is a major win for Illinois workers, our economy, and the future of American manufacturing," wrote Gov. Pritzker. "Bringing back the Belvidere plant and creating 3,300 good-paying jobs demonstrates the skill, dedication, and productivity of Illinois’ workforce."
State Senator Steve Stadelman expressed his excitement for local workers while labeling the reopening as a "team effort".
"Stellantis’ announcement is a big win for our local economy and workers. It took a team effort -- including the UAW and state and local governments -- to incentivize the automaker to reopen the Belvidere Assembly plant," said State Sen. Stadelman.
Congressman Bill Foster hailed the announcement as an "important milestone" but said there is still work to be done.
"Now, it’s essential that Stellantis follows through on these commitments and that we maintain a stable business climate that allows Belvidere and other plants to flourish—not one driven by unpredictable tariffs," said Congressman Foster.
State Representative Dave Vella thanked the United Auto Workers (UAW) union and Gov. Pritzker for their efforts in making the reopening possible.
"Their commitment has secured a brighter future for Belvidere and the countless families who depend on this plant," said Rep. Vella.
Senators Dick Durbin and Tammy Duckworth released a joint statement in which they welcomed the news and labeled it as a "major win" for the Rockford area.
"With this sizeable investment, we expect thousands of workers to return to the assembly line," said Senators Durbin and Duckworth. "We are encouraged that Stellantis sees the value in building up the Belvidere plant, and this is a major win for Illinois’ economy and the Rockford region."