Iowans voted against themselves

Iowa voted to give the nation’s most disliked governor five more Republicans in the 2025 Iowa General Assembly for January.

Nearly 62% of Iowans oppose school vouchers as it takes money away from public schools for private education. Iowans, why are you letting private entities take your money from your public school district?

Last year, the battle cry of Iowa parents heard across the state as the legislature dismantled Area Education Agencies even though 56% of Iowans support the work they do for students, particularly in rural school districts. Where was that battle cry when you marked your ballot?

Iowa ranks 49th in the nation when it comes to OB-GYN healthcare. Recent abortion restrictions have further limited access to these services, which is why 59% of Iowans were against the fetal heartbeat bill. Yet, you voted against your wife and sisters.

Did you hear Iowa Republicans chanting “tax cuts, tax cuts?” Ask your city council or county supervisors about the property tax relief bill that slashed their budgets. Maybe you’ll notice in 2025 when there’s very little gravel on your roads or less snow removal in town because of no overtime. Will that help you remember who you voted for?

While many Iowa Republicans run as moderates but legislate as extremists, you’ve given them the green light to just keep on cutting more funding from public schools, healthcare, daycare, nursing homes, farmers, families, and veterans.

Iowa, you voted against yourself.

Mary Melchert

Monticello