Julie Fortier prioritizes integrity, accountability, and accessibility in run for congressional seat
Julie Fortier introduces herself during a Zoom call earlier this June, “I'm an Air Force veteran. I spent four years in the Air Force, and part of that, my tour over there was with Desert Shield. I spent 4 1/2 months in Qatar.”
After serving her country, Fortier was stationed at Scott Air Force Base. That's when she decided to make Southwest Illinois home. She attended McKendree College(now McKendree University), earning degrees in biology and mathematics before earning her PhD in biomedical sciences from St. Louis University. Since then, she has spent time working in cancer research, teaching, and volunteering in the community.
Fortier became involved politically after President Trump's first election. Her decision to run for the 12th Congressional District came after she called Congressman Mike Bost's office, voicing her concern about his vote for the One Big Beautiful Bill Act last year, “He sent me a form letter back telling me what was good about the bill. And I know it's a form l…