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Labor Day: Celebrating Iowa Workers and America’s Comeback

This Labor Day, we pause to celebrate the dignity of work and honor the men and women whose grit, skills, and determination built Iowa and made America the most prosperous nation in the world. From our farmers and manufacturers to our small business owners and service workers, Labor Day is about recognizing that our strength as a country comes from hardworking Americans.

This year, we have more to celebrate. Thanks to President Trump’s America First agenda and the reconciliation package we passed in Congress, we are seeing jobs come back to America, energy prices fall, and opportunities grow for Iowa families. Gas prices are at their lowest Labor Day levels in five years, real relief that makes it easier for Iowans to get to work, visit family, and enjoy time together this holiday weekend. That’s what happens when we unleash American energy instead of restricting it.

We’re also rebuilding our workforce with the largest investment in trade schools and workforce development in our nation’s history. With up to $500 billion dedicated to skills training, young Iowans can get the training they need to build careers in manufacturing, construction, health care, and emerging industries, without being forced into a one-size-fits-all four-year degree. This investment is a direct pipeline to better jobs and stronger communities.

The Made in America provisions we secured in reconciliation are already paying dividends. Companies are investing billions in U.S. manufacturing, from steel and equipment to semiconductors and advanced technology. Here in Iowa’s First District, manufacturers are hiring, expanding, and competing globally, proving that when we prioritize American workers and American products, everyone benefits.

Labor Day is not only a celebration of the past; it is a commitment to the future. I will keep working every day to make sure Iowa’s workers and families have the tools, opportunities, and freedom they need to succeed.

Together, with President Trump’s leadership, we are restoring the dignity of work, rebuilding the backbone of our economy, and ensuring the next generation inherits an America that is strong, prosperous, and free.

Representing Iowa's First District

I visited Danville to meet with farmers and community bankers about how the reconciliation bill is delivering certainty through ACRE and pro-growth tax reforms. We also discussed year-round E-15, the first RVO increase in decades, and the need for a strong Farm Bill to keep Iowa agriculture thriving.

It was great joining AFP Iowa in Lee County for a town hall where I heard directly from constituents and answered their questions.

We talked about historic tax cuts for Iowa families, securing the border, protecting women’s sports, lowering costs, preserving Medicaid for those it was intended for, and unleashing American energy.

The message was clear: continue putting Iowa and America first. That’s exactly what I’ll keep fighting for in Congress.

I sat down with law enforcement and EMS leaders in Lee County to talk about how we can better support those who protect and serve. We discussed recruitment and retention, funding for emergency services, and how provisions in reconciliation like No Tax on Overtime and expanded training support help first responders. I’ll always stand with Iowa’s law enforcement officers and EMS personnel to ensure they have the tools and resources they need to keep our communities safe.

I joined the Burlington Rotary to share updates on the upcoming session. We discussed the importance of passing the remaining appropriations bills, getting a strong Farm Bill across the finish line, and keeping the government open. I’ll continue working to deliver results and ensure Iowa’s voice is heard in Washington.

Great meeting with the Society for Human Resource Management in Davenport to discuss key challenges and opportunities facing our workforce.

We talked about strengthening the education-to-employment pipeline through upskilling and reskilling, supporting workers with caregiving responsibilities, and ensuring AI in the workplace is used responsibly.

I met with Andrea Wright from the MS Society in my Indianola office to discuss advancing research and treatment options for those living with MS. We also talked about PBM reform and the need to lower prescription drug costs so patients can access the care they deserve.

Sincerely,

Dr. Mariannette Miller-Meeks

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