A young Iowa mother recently told me her family got passports “just in case.” That conversation stuck with me. Fear, division, and hostility toward disagreement are growing in America, and we need to talk honestly about it. I love this country, support the Constitution, and believe patriotism means defending liberty, free speech, and the right to disagree — not blind loyalty to any politician.

With Iowa's cancer rates the second highest in the nation, candidate Bill Owen explores the link between water contaminants like nitrates and the health of our communities.

I’ve been talking with neighbors across District 11 — knocking on doors, attending events, and listening. The concerns are clear: affordability, healthcare, water quality, education, workforce, and accountability. I’ve also sensed fear — fear of labels, fear of disagreement, fear of losing community. We can do better. Let’s talk openly, respectfully, and work toward solutions that protect our liberties and strengthen Iowa.

I recently participated in the 2026 Democratic Caucus — my first since Independents in Iowa don’t have that opportunity. I joined the Democratic Party to fully engage in the process and earn a place on the ballot. At the caucus, I heard real concerns about affordability, education, and leadership that listens. If elected, my responsibility will be to the people of Iowa — to think independently and lead with common sense.

It’s time for grown-ups to step in. Public resources don’t belong to politicians — they belong to the people. Leadership means responsibility, accountability, and respect for the institutions we serve. If we expect professionalism in every workplace in Iowa, we should expect it from those in office too.

Flat taxes hit low-wage Iowans hardest. Learn why locking a 3.9% flat tax into Iowa’s Constitution would deepen inequality.