Peters: Choose a new voice in Washington

My name is Christopher Peters. I am a veteran, surgeon and small business owner running for Congress in Iowa's 2nd District.

Iowans deserve better than Dave Loebsack. For 12 years, his office has failed to be transparent with his constituents. He knows his record is bad for Iowa, and that's why he refuses to defend his record to voters.

This past week, Loebsack again refused to address his constituents by withdrawing from a debate between our two campaigns. His ideas can't win in a fair debate, so he would rather silence his opposition than be challenged on his beliefs. It's time voters stand up for themselves and elect the voice they deserve in Washington.

I'm running for Congress because Washington is broken, and Dave Loebsack is part of the problem. While one person is virtually powerless to change our political culture, sometimes it only takes one leader to rally a group of congressmen who can truly make a difference on Capitol Hill. Leading by example sends a powerful message to those around you, and that is exactly what I will do as your next congressman.

I have taken pledges to support term limits for federal politicians and hold town halls in each county in the district every year. We cannot expect to fix our nation's problems by re-electing the same career politicians who created them in the first place.

I have also pledged to work across the aisle by seeking out those with whom I disagree, and working to peacefully reconcile our differences on legislation. Government only works for the people when both parties work together. Bipartisanship in this era of polarization is difficult, but I truly believe it will make our country a better place.

As a physician and U.S. Army veteran, I have the experience necessary to fix our broken health care system, protect our troops and honor our veterans. I will approach every issue with an independent mind without a partisan bias.

I will only support bills that are constitutional, good for the country and good for my constituents.

Voters have a choice between two more years of failed leadership under Dave Loebsack, or a new congressman, who will truly represent the interests of voters. It's time Iowans elect the voice they deserve in Washington.

I encourage you to visit my website, DrPetersForIowa.com, and I ask you to vote for me, Christopher Peters, on or before Nov. 6.

' Christopher Peters is the Republican candidate in Iowa's 2nd Congressional District.

All candidate guest columns in Iowa's 2nd District race:

' Daniel Clark

' Dave Loebsack

' Christopher Peters

' Mark Strauss