Des Moines County GOP

Why big changes are needed in Des Moines? The headline says it all.

When Iowa’s legislature reconvenes in 2011, its members will have the difficult task of filling a huge budget hole. We taxpayers cannot sustain a state budget that spends more money than it takes in. Yet majority Democrats repeatedly have taken the easy way out, using one-time federal money (still your tax dollars) and cash reserves (more of your tax dollars) to cover the costs until the next year rolls around… and, not by coincidence, get them past November’s elections. Well, federal money is drying up and so is Iowa’s cash reserve.

So now what?

It’s time to elect leaders who understand the kind of common-sense budgeting that families and small business owners must do on a near daily basis. We need to elect leaders who aren’t afraid to do what’s right for Iowa – even though doing what’s right isn’t always doing what’s easy. For the past few years, Democrats have had that opportunity as they control nearly every level of power in Des Moines, and they’ve failed every time. Republicans are ready for the challenge. We’ve been offering up solutions, such as setting expiration dates on state programs, at which time they’ll be re-evaluated to see if they’re working and are worth funding. We believe in balancing the state’s bank account just like you balance yours at home. We’ve advocated changing the constitution to limit state spending. You can read more about those solutions on our website.

The bottom line is this: Democratic one-party rule has failed Iowa and her citizens, and Republicans are ready to do what it takes to fix Iowa’s budget and protect Iowa taxpayers. Please give your local Republican candidate the opportunity to do just that this November.

Candidate Spotlight: GOP Gubernatorial Candidates

Wednesday, Iowa’s Republican gubernatorial candidates shared their vision for improving the lives of Iowa’s families during their first debate this primary season. If you haven’t yet watched the debate, I encourage you to watch it online. It is a great opportunity to get to know Terry Branstad, Rod Roberts and Bob Vander Plaats. Find out more about their positions on the issues by watching the debate replay on KTIV’s website.

Congressman King Re-schedules Town Hall Meetings

Congressman Steve King has re-scheduled town hall meetings for Monday, April 19. These are great opportunities to hear from Iowa’s 5^th District Congressman, and to share your concerns and feedback. Please consider attending one if you can!

Congressman King’s Town Hall Schedule for Monday, April 19:
Town Hall Meeting in Council Bluffs

9:30 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.
Iowa Western Community College, Looft Hall Auditorium, 2700 College Road, Council Bluffs

Town Hall Meeting in Sioux City
2:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Western Iowa Tech Community College, Cargill Auditorium, 4647 Stone Avenue, Sioux City

Ask your tax preparer to check the box before filing!

Iowans are nearing the deadline to file their income taxes. Did you know that you can benefit the Iowa GOP by simply checking the box on your state income tax return? For each person who checks the Republican Party of Iowa box, we receive $1.50 to help support the conservative candidates running for office. If you’re married, you and your spouse can each check the box. It does not increase the amount of tax you owe or decrease your refund. If you don’t file your own taxes, please remind your tax preparer that you’d like to check the box. Thank you!