"There is a human rights crisis at our border, and now is an urgent time to act ..." more

Throughout its history, Iowa has been a place where women break barriers. Time after time, Iowa women have shown if they set their minds to something, work hard and believe in themselves, they can accomplish anything. more

Republican state Reps. Ross Paustian, Norlin Mommsen and Gary Mohr, in a news release, named the following as significant new laws which will take effect July 1: more

Growing up in Asmara, Eritrea, our three bedroom open home was just like you might see in Florida. more

The prairie grass waved gently in the wind, and the river flowed as it always had, uncaring of the scene that was being carried out just a short distance to the west. more

I opposed Senate File 634 and encouraged the Governor to veto the bill. As state treasurer, I have been a vocal advocate for the hardworking Iowans, their families, and their communities, who depend on IPERS in retirement. more

On July 2, 1919, Iowa became the 10th state to ratify the right of all citizens, regardless of gender, to vote. Commemoration and celebration – from an Iowa perspective – of this 100-year anniversary is starting throughout the state. Twenty-six different projects and activities which are intended to educate the public regarding this monumental achievement have been in the planning stage since 2017. more

Ice, snow, and frigid temperatures push dreams of vacation into planning mode. Anyone familiar with my habits and obsessions will tell you that traveling is my passion and I crave adventure. It’s amazing how hours in a mini-van can bring a family closer and transform argumentative teenagers into temporary friends. When traveling anywhere, I do my research. Planning ahead saves time and energy on a vacation where you’re supposed to be relaxing. I’m often asked about travel details, so I thought I’d share some tips. more

When I thought about running for the Iowa Senate, I thought about how I could impact positive change with my experience, education and background. I wasn’t sure it was something I wanted to do, but after being on the school board for a full term of four years, I quickly learned that if I wanted to really impact education as well as other priorities that are important to me, that I needed to be in the Iowa Senate. I was worried after being on a non-partisan school board that the state legislative process would be frustrating and unproductive. While it was frustrating at times, I feel like it was the right decision for me, and I felt like I was able to use my skills, education and background to make a real difference in my first session as a state senator. more

Forty years ago a group of DeWitt business people marched up and down Sixth Avenue garnering support to make an offer on the “Majestic Theater,” historically known as the Operahouse. more

Public safety is frequently one of the top things that Iowans identify as something the Legislature needs to address. We have taken this topic seriously, passing many bills this session that will keep students, motorists, and senior citizens safe across our state. more

I’ve been a special ed teacher at the Edward White Elementary School in Eldridge for five years. more