Letter: Education is a priority for Gadelha

With so much media coverage of the controversial campaign for president, it's been tough for local candidates to punch through the clutter. One, Rene Gadelha, decided to go direct, and has knocked on over 17,000 doors since last fall. That is almost every household in Senate District 34. I've witnessed many people who voice their concerns to her. I've seen her engage and listen to them, which has earned my appreciation, my respect and my vote.

Her openness, objectivity and energy tell me that she will be a legislator who makes up her own mind versus locking into predictable political positions. Isn't that what we need more of in order to go beyond gridlock between the two parties, two legislative chambers and two branches of government? I have heard residents say we need more people like her to first seek office and then seek solutions to improve our K-12 schools, create jobs and keep our kids here. Thinking about my kids, and others' kids, I am proud to support Gadelha for the Iowa Senate.

Laura Skogman

Marion