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.