Reynolds: Keep Iowa moving forward

Every day, I'm working to build a better Iowa. It's the first thing I think about in the morning and on my mind at night. I take this job seriously because Iowans trust me to do what's right.

I also believe there is no better place to live, work and raise a family than Iowa.

It's a place where a small-town girl can run for county office, state Senate and serve as lieutenant governor. It's a place where a fifth-generation Iowan can become the first female governor. And, it's a place where core values matter, and promises are kept.

My vision for Iowa focuses on growing jobs, strengthening education, improving health care and protecting Iowans. The facts prove my approach is working.

Fact 1 - Education matters: Since 2011, $765 million in new money has been invested in K-12 education. Only three other states have invested in education at a faster rate than Iowa. We've also earned a global reputation for our STEM initiative. Both efforts are preparing our young people for a knowledge-driven economy.

Fact 2 - Mental health matters: This year, the Legislature unanimously passed my mental health care reform bill. I also signed an executive order to create the first Children's Mental Health Board. Now, we're able to provide more compassionate and accessible mental health care to Iowans of all ages.

Fact 3 - Tax cuts matter: Every dollar counts. That's why I signed into law the most comprehensive tax reform in Iowa history. Iowans are seeing more money in their paychecks for groceries, gas and other necessities. Most importantly, we did this while maintaining our top priorities.

We've also achieved a $127 million surplus in the state budget, Iowa's unemployment rate is second-lowest in the country and Iowans' incomes are on the rise. We're definitely on the right track.

Earlier this year, U.S. News and World Report named Iowa the No. 1 state in the country, a ranking that reflects our people, our work ethic and our values.

So let's keep Iowa moving in the right direction. With your vote in November, we can continue focusing on jobs, education, health care and public safety. My story is the Iowa story. I love this state, our people and this job.

With your vote, we can work together to build a better Iowa for our children, grandchildren and future generations.

' Kim Reynolds is the Republican candidate for governor of Iowa.

All candidate guest columns in the race for Governor:

' Fred Hubbell

' Jake Porter

' Kim Reynolds

' Gary Siegwarth

Despite multiple attempts by The Gazette, Kim Reynolds failed to schedule an endorsement meeting. Therefore, no video is available.