June 13, 2022

Duckworth, Durbin Meet With Boeing CEO Following Decision to Move Headquarters From Chicago

 

[WASHINGTON D.C.]–U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) and U.S. Senate Majority Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) today met with Boeing President and CEO David Calhoun to discuss Boeing’s recent decision to move its global headquarters from Chicago to Arlington, Virginia. The Senators wrote a letter urging Calhoun to maintain a strong presence in Chicago after the May 5th announcement. In the letter, the Senators emphasized the impact Boeing’s relocation would have on Illinois’ economy. Currently, Boeing’s headquarters, which has been in Chicago since 2001, employs more than 400 Illinoisans. In total, Boeing currently employs 1,135 people across Illinois in both its commercial and defense aerospace sectors, as well as another 1,000 Illinoisans at the company’s facility in St. Louis. During the meeting, the Senators urged Calhoun to demonstrate Boeing’s commitment to Chicago and Illinois.

“While I remain deeply disappointed in Boeing’s decision to move its headquarters out of Illinois, I hope that the company remains true to its word to keep employing hundreds of workers in Chicago—and I’m hopeful that Boeing will continue to grow its presence downstate in Metro East,” said Duckworth. “I was glad that Senator Durbin and I had a chance to communicate our concerns directly to Boeing’s CEO and I look forward to continuing discussions. I will keep doing all I can to protect Illinois’s workers and jobs.”

“The abrupt news to move Boeing’s headquarters from Chicago to Arlington was extremely disappointing,” said Durbin. “With thousands of employees statewide and deep ties across the commercial and federal aerospace sectors, Senator Duckworth and I are committed to protecting Illinois jobs and Illinois workers. We relayed these sentiments to Mr. Calhoun and welcome his commitment to maintain nearly all jobs at Boeing’s Chicago office. I also look forward to Boeing’s continued investments across the State of Illinois, including at MidAmerica Airport.”

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