Dick Durbin (D-IL)

Brief Biography

Dick Durbin is the Democratic U.S. Senator from Illinois, a position he has held since 1997. Born on November 21, 1944, he has a background in law and public service, including prior roles as a U.S. Representative for Illinois's 20th District from 1983 to 1997 and as an assistant state's attorney. His legislative priorities encompass national security, consumer protection, immigration reform, and judicial matters. In the 119th Congress, he serves as a member of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Defense, where he advocates for accountable military funding, oversight of defense programs, and support for service members and veterans. He also holds the position of Senate Majority Whip.

Contact Information

• Website: https://www.durbin.senate.gov/

• Washington, DC Office:

  • Address: 711 Hart Senate Office Building, Washington, DC 20510

  • Phone: (202) 224-2152

  • Fax: (202) 228-0400

  • Email/Contact Form: https://www.durbin.senate.gov/contact (requires ZIP code verification for constituents; non-constituents can use general form or mail)

• District Offices:

  • Chicago Office: 230 S. Dearborn Street, Suite 3892, Chicago, IL 60604; Phone: (312) 353-4952; Fax: (312) 353-0150

  • Springfield Office: 525 South 8th Street, Springfield, IL 62703; Phone: (217) 492-4062; Fax: (217) 492-4382

  • Carbondale Office: 250 W. Cherry Street, Suite 115-D, Carbondale, IL 62901; Phone: (618) 351-1122; Fax: (618) 457-7380

  • Rock Island Office: 1504 Third Avenue, Suite 227, Rock Island, IL 61201; Phone: (309) 786-5173; Fax: (309) 786-5404

• Other Notes: Durbin's extensive experience in appropriations informs his focus on ethical defense spending and veteran issues. His office welcomes input on national security matters. Social media: @SenatorDurbin on X (Twitter).

Sample Letter

[This letter is customizable; users can copy, paste, and personalize it for email, print, or mail. Include your name, address, and contact details to verify legitimacy.]

Subject: Support for Amendment to Enhance USMC Rifle Marksmanship Training in FY2027 Appropriations Act

Dear Senator Durbin,

I am writing to express my strong support for an amendment to the Fiscal Year 2027 Department of War Appropriations Act that would mandate a minimum of 3,120 rounds of annual rifle training for every United States Marine. As a signer of the #morebulletspeez petition, which has garnered widespread backing from Marine families, veterans, and concerned citizens, I urge you to consider including this provision in the bill during subcommittee markup.

This amendment addresses a critical readiness gap, particularly for the approximately 118,000 Marines in support and non-infantry roles who often receive fewer than 400 rounds per year. By allocating $235 million—$75 million for Operation and Maintenance, Marine Corps (including rifle sustainment such as barrel replacements) and $160 million for Procurement of Ammunition, Navy and Marine Corps—it ensures all Marines uphold the "every Marine a rifleman" principle without redundancy for combat-oriented positions. The proposal includes flexible scheduling and a policy directive for the Commandant to update Marine Corps Order 3574.2M, promoting efficiency and accountability.

As a member of the Defense Appropriations Subcommittee, your leadership is essential in prioritizing such investments in our military's preparedness. I respectfully request your support for this amendment to strengthen the Marine Corps' capabilities.

Thank you for your service and consideration. I look forward to your response.

Sincerely,

[Your Full Name]

[Your Address]

[City, State, ZIP Code]

[Your Email]

[Your Phone Number]

[Petition Signer ID or Note: "Signer of #morebulletspeez Petition"]