Reps behavior was insulting to speakers

I attended the Des Moines hearing on House File 525 (a bill with proposed changes to collective bargaining for public employees).

Nearly 2,000 people attended with approximately 70 people presenting opinions to consider. From my seat in the gallery, I overlooked our elected representatives on the floor. To watch and listen to each speaker, the representatives had to turn their chairs around to face behind where microphones were placed. The vast majority (both Republicans and Democrats) turned toward the speakers and appeared attentive to each through the entire proceeding, which was well over two hours.

Unfortunately, one member in particular stood out to many of us there: Rep. Nick Wagner, of Marion. He spent his time turned away and focused entirely on his laptop or cell phone. From my vantage point, I do not know what he was working on, apparently something more important to him than focusing on the impassioned words of his fellow Iowans, but the impression he made on this citizen also from Marion was not good. This behavior was insulting to the speakers, regardless of their views on House File 525.

His position was clearly fixed, so he apparently felt no need to display even the slightest interest.

I am a public schoolteacher with over 25 years of experience. If Rep. Wagner were a student in one of my classes, I would tell him: “Close your laptop, turn around, sit up straight, and pay attention.

You just might learn something.”

Marcy Russell

Marion