Trump's visit reminded Iowa what America First delivers

When I listened to President Donald Trump during his visit to Iowa, he wasn’t just stopping by friendly territory. He was reinforcing a message that resonates deeply across our state: America works best when we put American workers, producers, and industries first.

As a longtime Republican in Iowa, I’ve watched our communities thrive when Washington understands the core values of Americans. Under President Trump’s America First agenda, we see what happens when leadership finally aligns with the people who grow our food, build our products, and keep this country running.

For Iowa farmers, Trump’s policies meant standing up for fair trade and opening markets instead of surrendering them. For manufacturers, it meant lower regulatory burdens and a government that encouraged expansion rather than punishing success. For American industry as a whole, it meant a renewed belief that we can and should make things here again.

That vision matters just as much today as it did during Trump’s first term. A strong economy doesn’t happen by accident – it’s built on infrastructure, energy independence, and efficient ways to move American goods to American and global markets. That’s where railroads, long a backbone of Iowa’s economy, come into focus.

Our state depends on rail to move grain, ethanol, manufactured goods, and raw materials. A modern, efficient rail system is essential to keeping Iowa competitive. The proposed merger between Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern will support President Trump’s vision of a stronger American economy.

President Trump understands that revitalizing American manufacturing and agriculture requires bold, strategic thinking. Which is why he himself has noted the merger “sounds good.” A unified rail will reduce supply-chain bottlenecks, lower transportation costs, and better connect producers in the Midwest to markets nationwide. For rural communities and industrial hubs alike, that kind of efficiency translates into jobs, growth, and long-term stability.

To me, an America First approach means making sure our infrastructure works for Americans first—our workers, our families, and our communities. It means thoughtful oversight and real accountability, but it also means having the courage to invest in American industry instead of accepting decline as our future. President Trump never accepted that—and neither do I.

During his visit, President Trump reminded us that economic strength begins with Made in America. Here in Iowa, we live that truth every day. From our farms and factories to our rail lines, we know we don’t need to rely on foreign competitors when we have the talent, resources, and work ethic right here at home. Iowa proves that when American industry is given a fair shot, it can still lead the world.

Thank you, President Trump, for standing with the American worker and bringing jobs back from overseas. Thank you for supporting a strong American rail system that strengthens our economy, and for continuing to stand with agriculture—an industry Iowa depends on and is proud of. Most of all, thank you for putting Americans first.

Denise Bubeck is president of the Iowa Federation of Republican Women.