Hinson needs to debate her positions

I've heard Iowa Rep. Ashley Hinson speak at several forums. She presents herself as a bipartisan representative for our community; however, I've noticed a tactic she uses to avoid discussing her more divisive votes. Rather than debating the merits of contentious issues or legislation, she placates the audience by saying 'I don't think that will make it out of committee” or 'that won't get enough votes in the Senate.” It is an intelligent manipulation technique that quells debate.

The reality is many of these contentious bills do make it out of committee, are passed by both chambers, and become laws.

Some of the laws Hinson voted for include failing to adequately fund public education, blocking increases to the minimum wage, limiting teachers from collective bargaining rights, and voting to ban abortion after the sixth week of pregnancy.

Some of her constituents support these votes - against education, the minimum wage, unions, and women's right to privacy - but many us do not and our voices need to be a part of the debate. I encourage all Hinson constituents not to accept 'don't worry” as an answer and press her to debate her positions in our public forums.

Jay Borschel

Marion

Note: An earlier version of this letter misstated that a bill supported by Hinson established a criminal penalty for an abortion performed after the sixth week of pregnancy. The bill established no criminal penalty.