Franken has been on a global stage

Iowa Democrats have a rare opportunity to select a challenger to Sen. Joni Ernst who brings unparalleled credentials to an Iowa race. 'Admiral Michael Franken is the perfect contrast to Trump and Ernst,” says the Storm Lake Times in its endorsement. This follows The Des Moines Register's endorsement.

Republicans fear Admiral Michael Franken, a Democrat running in the June 2 primary.

A Navy vice admiral, Franken's service to country has taken him to all points of the globe and given him unrivaled skills in leadership that come with command. As I write this on Memorial Day I am reminded of the challenges to those who take on the rigor of military service and of the talent set needed to rise to the highest posts of leadership.

Franken is a fourth generation Iowan who as a young man took the initiative and risk that comes with moving often and far and wide. He is home to serve his state and country. The other candidates in this race have rarely strayed far from mama's apron strings. Republicans hope we pick one of them in the primary.

These are all good people but typical vanilla Iowa Democrats. All have endearing personal stories but Trump and Ernst Republicans will make toast of endearing stories.

It's a big world out there Iowa Democrats. Let's put a guy on the national stage who has been on the world stage. That's Admiral Michael Franken.

David Helman

Salem