Friend,
Hearing from Iowans is the most important part of my job. Before heading back to DC this week, I met with small businesses, manufacturers, health care workers, farmers, and community officials throughout our district. Check out some highlights from my time in Iowa, Poweshiek, Tama, Benton, Black Hawk, and Buchanan Counties:
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Iowa County: I visited the Whirlpool facility in Amana and learned more about the history of the Amana plant. It was amazing to see where the greatest refrigerators on the planet are made and hear from those who make them.
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Poweshiek County: I visited BASF in Malcom and heard more about how supply chain issues and inflation are impacting their workers and entire operation.
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Tama County: Tama County Women, Land, and Legacy is an agriculture cooperative that empowers female landowners to make a positive difference in their communities and to be the best stewards of their land. It was great to see these benefits firsthand in Traer.
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Benton County: In Vinton, we visited Brickside Brew-N-Chew, the Niche, Three D Kitchens, and LaGrange Pharmacy to hear about challenges facing Main Street businesses. Despite mounting uncertainty about the economy, I’m so impressed by how small businesses make it all work, keep their doors open, and still find ways to give back to the community.
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Black Hawk County: I went to the Peoples Community Health Clinic in Waterloo to hear from our health care heroes. We discussed how the clinic continues to adapt and evolve to best serve the community and the need for more health care workers.
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Buchanan County: I met with the Buchanan County Secondary Road Department. They have a proud history of innovation, and over the past three years they’ve partnered with state agencies and Iowa State University to research ways to use waste plastics to strengthen our road bases. This is a win-win for taxpayers and the environment!
As I hear from folks across our district, one thing is clear: there is a serious disconnect between the conversations Iowans are having around their kitchen table and the policies that President Biden and Speaker Pelosi are pursuing in Washington. I will continue to tell your stories in Congress and work to improve your daily life!
