116 3rd St SE
Cedar Rapids, Iowa 52401
Home / Opinion / Letters to the Editor
Norwood is the best pick for ag secretary
Ria Tomar
Sep. 5, 2022 6:00 am
Bridging the disconnect between citizens and their representatives is crucial for any strong leader. John Norwood emphasizes direct representation and personal connections, something I discovered myself. When I first became interested in his campaign for secretary of agriculture, he wanted to hear from me directly, whereas most politicians may leave someone to communicate with their staff. This effort on Mr. Norwood’s part is a testament to his character and priorities.
Mr. Norwood also aims to make his solutions digestible, not just to those familiar with agricultural processes but also to the ordinary citizen. He frames the issue and its solution in terms of what it means for every individual, without sugarcoating. Mr. Norwood explains the circumstances as they are, good or bad, and that comes as a priority for him above securing a win in an election.
The role of the secretary of agriculture goes beyond overseeing agriculture for the state. It also involves caring for our natural resources, making safe drinking water a priority and ensuring that our waterways are free of toxins that threaten our wildlife and our health. According to Water & Wastes Digest, nitrogen pollution out of Iowa into the Gulf of Mexico has increased by nearly 50 percent in the last 20 years. The current administration’s policies are not effective.
Mr. Norwood has specific, clear-cut solutions to improve Iowa’s food, land and water systems. Consider voting for John Norwood for an Iowa built to last.
Ria Tomar
Clive
Opinion content represents the viewpoint of the author or The Gazette editorial board. You can join the conversation by submitting a letter to the editor or guest column or by suggesting a topic for an editorial to editorial@thegazette.com