Truth still matters in politics

Growing up in a staunchly Republican household in Iowa, my parents prioritized teaching my siblings and me fundamental values over political discourse. They emphasized distinguishing between right and wrong, honesty versus deceit.

Reflecting on these lessons became poignant during a recent event masquerading as a town hall in northeast Iowa, featuring U.S. Rep. Ashley Hinson. Hinson spent the first 15 minutes decrying "Bidenomics" and "Bidinflation," echoing GOP rhetoric. She also bemoaned Washington’s division while claiming a commitment to finding common ground on voter concerns.

During the event, I questioned Hinson’s pursuit of “common ground” when her immediate social media post after Donald Trump’s 34 felony convictions said the following:

“This is a disgrace and a total sham. This has been a political prosecution from the very beginning orchestrated by Biden. President Donald Trump will fight this and we must all fight alongside him to right this wrong & re-elect him as President. The future of our country depends on it.”

I asked her why she would post such a false statement? I said that a member of Congress surely knows the difference between a state court vs a federal court, that the verdict was handed down by a jury of 12, all approved by both the defense and the prosecution, making it virtually impossible for the president to have any influence in the outcome. Trump was given the chance to testify on his own behalf but chose not to.

“Don’t the voters in District 2 deserve more honesty from you?” I asked. “And why do you continue to support a convicted rapist and felon for the most powerful position in the world?”

Hinson responded evasively, resorting to exaggerated claims and unfounded accusations. She falsely stated that the New York DA campaigned against Trump (he didn’t) and alleged the judge donated to Biden. (It was $15. Shall we talk about unreported lavish gifts and travel worth millions to at least two of our Supreme Court justices?)

She even referred to the "Biden crime family," despite a circus House impeachment hearing last fall that provided no evidence. Her falsehoods included a “disaster U.S. economy,” despite all indicators of the strongest economy in the world currently.

Then there was the one that, were she alive, my Grandmother would have responded with, “Tell such lies and your nose will fall off!” Hinson claimed, as she has in social media posts, that her opponent, Sarah Corkery, “supports abortion on demand right up until birth.” Huge lie. Corkery believes a woman’s reproductive health choice is hers, not the government. That’s it.

What do Hinson’s lies have to do with Trump finally being held accountable by our justice system? Nothing. She knows this. But Hinson would rather tow the party line at her public townhalls rather than being honest with her constituents. The next election is all that matters.

Hinson’s conduct mirrors Trump’s debate performance Thursday night, characterized by a flood of lies as widely reported by all reputable news organizations.

Iowans deserve leaders who prioritize truth and integrity over partisan gain. My upbringing underscores the importance of factual discourse, a stark contrast to Hinson’s tactics. My parents' teachings resonate: truth matters.

Tim Wagner is a retired conservation advocate and writer who lives in Decorah, and now spends much of his time helping with nonprofits and candidates running for public service.