Earlier this year, I wrote that I didn’t have high hopes for this Iowa legislative session. In that regard, they didn’t disappoint when they gaveled out on May 3rd! After a lot of bluster last session with no action, this year lawmakers finally passed some form of property tax reform. ...
Q: Why do Americans observe National Police Week? A: When moms and dads wait for a teenage driver to return home safely or a small business owner locks up their doors for the night, Americans across the country appreciate that law enforcement officers stand on the thin blue line every day to ...
Gov. Kim Reynolds can put up her pointy-toe cowboy boots and reflect on 10 years of solid damage done under the golden dome. She might not be remembered as the worst. The Iowa History Journal ascribes that title to Gov. William L. Harding (1917-1921), who was considered for impeachment for ...
On April 30, the House of Representatives passed the Farm, Food, and National Security Act of 2026, moving the nation and rural communities one step closer to a new farm bill. The bill was passed by a vote of 224-200. Fourteen Democrats joined Republicans in voting for the bill, with three ...
Most people know the basics of healthy living that become more important as you grow older: Eat plenty of vegetables, exercise regularly, sleep well, have a social life, limit your alcohol consumption and don’t smoke. As an economist and social psychologist who study altruism and health, ...
Paying an out-of-state vendor millions of dollars to do what the State Auditor’s Office can do at a fraction of the cost – literally about five cents on the dollar – isn’t efficient: It’s a waste of your tax dollars. Iowans love pie – me included. My favorite is strawberry ...
Note: National Small Business Week is observed May 3 - May 9, 2026. Q: How did the Working Families Tax Cuts Act boost small business? A: This tax season delivered welcome news to small businesses across the country. Here in Iowa, small businesses make up more than 99% of businesses in our ...
Q: What drives your decades-long work as a taxpayer watchdog? A: It boils down to a simple principle. Taxpayers work hard for their money. The U.S. Treasury is not a piggy bank for fraudsters to exploit and drain public assistance programs for profit. Four decades ago, I resurrected a ...
Small businesses play a critical role in creating jobs, driving economic growth, and contributing to the overall well-being of rural communities. In many areas, they are the backbone of the local economy, providing essential goods and services. Spring offers a good reminder of the importance ...
Libraries are a vital part of our rural communities. That’s why I invite you to celebrate the library in your small town during National Library Week, April 19-25, 2026. These book-filled buildings serve as community spaces, wi-fi hotspots, children’s imagination stations, and more. Many ...