Franken helps where help is needed

Recently, I was asked to bring folding chairs to an event being held for Mike Franken at a venue that was down a steep hill from parking. After listening to Admiral Franken’s thoughtful and visionary responses to questions on many issues, I was left with the task of bringing them back to my car. Mike took one look at all the chairs, grabbed a bunch and started hauling them up the hill.

This very accomplished person — with advanced degrees in physics, the first commanding officer of a major naval vessel (the USS Winston Churchill), who has held multiple high-profile strategy, policy and planning positions; the first military officer to serve as a legislative fellow to Sen. Ted Kennedy and who served in the Obama administration, who was the only military adviser to vote against President George W. Bush’s invasion of Iraq — this man had the kindness to pitch in when help was needed. This is the person Iowa needs to elect to the U.S. Senate: someone smart, accomplished, articulate, thoughtful, funny (sometimes) — and compassionate.

He can surprise the pundits and pollsters by beating Sen. Chuck Grassley, and Iowa can help grow the Democratic majority in the U.S. Senate.

Rosanne Cook

Iowa City