Donahue: Putting Iowans’ needs first

I am running for the Iowa House because I believe the people of Iowa deserve much better than what they have received from politicians in Des Moines when it comes to Medicaid privatization, job creation, education, wages and our economy.

Since Medicaid privatization, 40,000 Iowans have been denied services, and health care providers are not being paid for services. Iowa's most vulnerable citizens deserve better.

Republicans have repeatedly promised job creation, often tied to corporate tax cuts that have left Iowans struggling for vital services and have failed to create new jobs or raise wages.

The opposition continues to say they have adequately funded our public schools, universities and community colleges. This is patently false.

We have seen educational institutions in our state starved of needed funds while cutting back on or eliminating vital programs and research. Budgets in public schools have been so drastically cut that 21st century innovation and basic needs are being stifled, while tuition continues to soar, passing on heavy debt burdens to our children and, in many cases, putting post-secondary educational opportunities out of reach.

The reality of these things adversely affect the economy and, most important, the quality of life for all Iowans.

I was born and raised in Cedar Rapids and hold a master's in behavior disorders from the University of Northern Iowa. I have been teaching in Cedar Rapids since 1990, and currently teach at my alma mater, Washington High School, working with students who have behavior issues. My parents are retired and live in Colorado. I also have two sisters who also live out of state.

If elected, I will do my utmost to reverse harmful trends and will always put Iowans and their needs first. I respectfully ask for your vote on Nov. 6.

' Molly Donahue is a Democratic candidate for Iowa House District 68.

All candidate guest columns in House District 68:

' Randy Ray

' Molly Donahue