Friend,
It is important for me to be accessible and transparent to those I serve. I hosted my second telephone town hall this week to provide an update on my work in Congress, hear from Iowans, and answer their questions.
We had a great discussion on infrastructure, challenges facing our farmers, and the need to secure our Southern Border. My biggest takeaway from the conversation was that Iowans want common sense policies in place as we are coming out of this pandemic.
Unfortunately, last week we got a disappointing jobs report that showed our economy slowing down as unemployment continues to rise across the country. This is on top of the highest inflation we've experienced since 2008. Americans are paying more for just about everything--from groceries, to lumber, used cars, and gasoline. Additionally, we are facing a labor shortage in Iowa. I've heard from businesses across our district who have "Help Wanted" signs on their doors but can't find workers to fill open jobs. This is largely because the government has been paying people to stay home instead of work, discouraging people from applying to open jobs.
Thankfully, Governor Reynolds decided to end Iowa's participation in additional federal pandemic related unemployment benefit programs. This is the right decision for workers, businesses, and families in Iowa. On the telephone town hall, I noted that the country should be following Iowa's lead as we look to reopen our economy and our schools and get life back to normal.
It was great to discuss our economy and other issues with those who joined the telephone town hall. If you were unable to join, but have questions about my work in Congress, please reach out to my office and we will connect with you. Whether we agree on an issue or not, I can promise that you will always know where I stand and why. I will continue to follow through on my promise of transparency and accountability and look forward to continuing these important conversations with Iowans.
Read more about my week in Washington below!
Best,