Editor’s note: Wes Breckenridge is challenging incumbent Rep. Dan Kelley for the Democratic nomination for Iowa House District 29 in the June 7 primary election. Please see my column on page 4A regarding this publication.
Q. What do you feel are the three most important issues Iowa will be facing during your term as a state representative? How do you plan to address those issues?
A. Dan Kelley
I’ve been walking door to door throughout Jasper County talking to voters about their ideas to make our communities great places to live, work, and raise a family. The conversations I’ve had on doorsteps confirm to me that my constituents are focused on the challenges and struggles of working families rather than political smear campaigns and negativity. They see through political bullying, and appreciate my focus on their concerns. I’ve heard three areas of concern most frequently; support for public schools, privatization of Medicaid, and protection of clean water. First, Iowa’s schools must be our top priority once again. For far too long the Republican majority in the Iowa House has put schools and Iowa’s kids low on their list and tax cuts for their powerful corporate allies first. They’ve failed to listen to teachers, parents, and students who tell them without adequate funding class sizes will increase, quality teachers will be cut, and our kids will pay the price. When Governor Branstad vetoed a compromise education budget last summer, he confirmed he is taking Iowa’s kids on a race to the bottom. I consistently stand with educators and kids in fighting for adequate school funding. Second, the Governor’s privatization of Medicaid is a mess and it’s only going to get worse. Again, Iowa’s working families pay the price, many of them seniors. All Iowans should be concerned when their tax dollars are going to private industry that isn’t able to deliver as promised and lacks accountability. Republicans are still ignoring the Medicaid privatization mess created by the Governor. Instead of doing their jobs as lawmakers and providing vigorous oversight of the $4 billion privatization transition, Republicans refuse to pass any plan that has teeth to hold the private companies accountable or even create an avenue to fix problems or make recommendations as problems arise. I firmly believe we have to take action on this when the legislature gavels in. Third, we have a crisis in water quality in Iowa. For far too long, the House majority has kicked the can down the road and failed to pass comprehensive legislation to protect Iowa’s water for future generations. The nutrient reduction strategy currently in effect is voluntary and lacks teeth. We have many farmers in Iowa who do good agricultural work to keep our economy strong and protect the environment at the same time. They’ve done this day to day, season to season, generation to generation. But there are also bad actors. I believe protection of our water is a matter of social justice, and sometimes justice means holding bad actors accountable. I want to see legislation passed to assist those who utilize best practices and technology to keep our water clean, while holding the bad actors accountable.
A. Wes Breckenridge
There are many issues of importance facing Iowa today. Three that stand out to me are: the current mental health crisis, educational funding, and water quality. As a Police Lieutenant, I observe individuals struggling with mental health crises. With the loss of 750 beds, and Iowa being ranked 47th in the nation in number of psychiatrists, many are not getting the help they deserve. I’ve contacted mental health professionals and other organizations to discuss possible solutions. I will create legislation to provide educational incentives to those going into psychiatric fields who will care for Iowans. As a parent of 3 children in public schools, and as a teacher at DMACC, education is a top priority to me. I’ve met with teachers and administrators in each district in Jasper County to gain their valuable insight. I will work collaboratively with school officials to increase Supplemental State Aid, and give educators the flexibility to meet the needs of their schools. I visited with Jasper County conservation officials and farmers about the water quality issues. Both have a desire to work towards improvements. I want to propose legislation that would create a stable, long-term solution for our lakes, streams and drinking water.
Q. If you could draft and introduce any bill in the state legislature what issue would it tackle and why?
A. Dan Kelley
I’ve introduced many bills during the three terms I’ve served in the House on a number of topics; paid sick leave, increasing the minimum wage, and support for veterans. I’m particularly proud of a series of legislative successes in promoting renewable energy. In my fourth term, I’d like to, again, work with my colleagues to right a wrong that has happened for far too long. Women deserve equal pay to men. It’s hard to believe in 2016 this inequality is still reality. Here in Iowa, women make 77.4 cents for every dollar a man makes. We rank 35th in the U.S. when it comes to the gender wage gap, but the statistics are even worse for women who are African American, Latina, Asian American, and Native American. That means over the course of a 35-year career, a woman with a college degree will make an average of $1.2 million less than a man with the same level of education. Paying people fairly for the work they do should not depend on their gender. Since Iowa has a high number of two parent working families, equal pay for equal work could mean saving for a home, sending your kids to college or retiring with dignity. I think it’s time for the Legislature to take action on equal pay. We should, at the same time, be bold in efforts to increase the minimum wage. This will help working families to makes ends meet.
A. Wes Breckenridge
As a Representative, I would introduce legislation that would tackle the mental health crisis. I have met with many individuals who are impacted by mental health issues, either themselves or loved ones, who are struggling. We are not providing necessary services as mentioned in the previous response. In addition, the privatization of Medicaid has caused many to lose services or have services delayed. We need to provide proper mental health care oversight to insure those suffering will have access to quality care. There is a lack of facilities and care providers. Law enforcement is routinely called to assist in emergency situations with mental health crises, but don’t have the professional training required to properly manage these situation. We commonly find ourselves in the emergency room for long hours trying to find beds and services, which compounds the suffering for the patient. In addition, mental health facilities currently are not required to report available beds onto the state software system. If this was mandated it would expedite the care and treatment of those suffering.
Q. What are your top priorities for Jasper County and House District 29?
A. Dan Kelley
As I’ve knocked on doors from Newton to Colfax to Baxter and everywhere else, Jasper County residents are deeply concerned about our stagnant efforts in attracting quality local jobs. While we should all be proud that we fought back when Maytag jobs left, by opening our doors to new opportunities in wind, biofuel, and other industries, our county’s economic development efforts must be stepped up. It’s time for action. Families are struggling, jobs are not easy to come by and many of them pay low wages. I will continue, in my 4th term, to provide support for Main Street businesses. The local shop owners and start-up businesses need our help, not tax breaks for big box stores, and businesses brought to town simply to compete with an existing locally owned business. I will continue to talk with local business owners and workers to see what legislation would be most effective in helping them grow and provide good jobs at better wages. I also share a deep concern with many of the voters I’ve talked to about the drug problem in our local communities. We can no longer ignore it and I refuse to, regardless of pressure to do so. In order to make our communities great places to live, work, and raise a family, it is essential to tackle this problem. Again, it’s important to hold those involved accountable. Law enforcement no doubt plays a large role, as well as educators, community leaders, and employers. We must all work together to tackle the only challenge we are up against that could prevent a great future for Jasper County. As a legislator who plays a role in state budget decisions, I consistently fight for support to the Office of Drug Control Policy. I also support good legislation which addresses drugs in rural and urban parts of the state and provides assistance to teachers who work hard to keep our youth on the right path.
A. Wes Breckenridge
Economic development must be a top priority for HD #29. Development will bring new businesses and homes to our communities. This economic development will also bring quality jobs with competitive wages and benefits to our district. Recent development, such as Becks Hybrid and Quarry Springs Park are just two examples of development projects that are making Jasper County a quality place to live, play and raise a family. Other enhancements to business, schools and our hospital provide amenities and service for our district. I applaud Jasper County Economic Development, Newton Development Corporation and other organizations that support these efforts. As a State Representative, I would work to get state resources and assistance that would aid in this process.
Q. In recent years, some would say the Iowa Legislature has become too partisan and divided. How would you try to overcome that?
A. Dan Kelley
I am very proud of my reputation for working across the aisle to find solutions and answers to the problems Iowans face everyday. I’ve built good relationships with many Republican Representatives and Senators. I’ve worked hard on this for six years. Compromise is not about backing down from principles and priorities. It is about standing up for them. Being able to negotiate compromise and generate ideas with the opposition is only possible after establishing respect and trust, and being intolerant of dishonesty. I do my best to be straightforward and respectful with my colleagues in both parties. I’m not a typical politician. I believe my constituents are in charge, not political party bosses and powerful lobbyists.
A. Wes Breckenridge
It is important that we all work together to make positive change for Jasper County and the State of Iowa. As your representative, I would reach across the aisle to build partnerships with others to get great things accomplished. This begins with doing the research and finding the common ground that we share. Once we have identified goals, we can take steps in determining how to get there. There must be open communication and compromise in order to move our county and state in the right direction. I would describe myself as a common sense, caring and passionate Democrat who will take his values, morals and ethics with him to the State House. I am committed to improving the quality of life for all Iowans.
Q. Correctional officers at the Newton Correctional Facility and in other prisons throughout the state have consistently said for years they are understaffed. Is this a concern and if so how do you plan to address it?
A. Dan Kelley
During the six sessions I’ve served in the Iowa Legislature I’ve consistently stood with Newton Correctional officers and employees against understaffing at their facility and others across the state. I’ve spoken with my votes on various budget proposals. I don’t believe the Republican House majority has provided adequate funding to keep the staff and public safe in Newton. I firmly believe that low staffing levels at Newton must be corrected. This is one of many reasons it is critical Democrats regain the majority in the Iowa House. I’m working hard towards this goal. It’s the best way I can fight for working families.
A. Wes Breckenridge
Staffing is a major issue at the Newton Correctional Facility as well as other facilities in Iowa. In 2013, the Newton Correctional Facility had 1,290 inmates, which was 27% over its capacity of 1,014. There were 33.9 inmates per correctional officer. In the years since, the numbers have only gotten worse, placing both officers and inmates at risk. I recently took a tour of the Newton Correctional Facility and observed firsthand the staffing shortage and the safety issues this creates. I have also attended meetings with correctional officers to discuss the issues of concern. During this legislative session I attended a rally outside the Department of Corrections Central Office with family and friends of AFCSME Local 451 to show my support for increased staffing and resources. We have all seen recent news of correctional officers being attacked and injured. We need to take steps to get these facilities the staffing and other resources they need to perform their jobs effectively.
Q. Has the Bakken pipeline approval process raised any questions for you on the state’s regulatory system? If so, explain. How do you feel eminent domain should be used?
A. Dan Kelley
While some politicians have been bought and paid for by Dakota Access, I’ve stood with landowners against Dakota Access and against Big Oil’s tainted money. I opposed the stockpiling of pipeline materials in Jasper County prior to approval from the Iowa Utilities Board. Any elected official who assisted with construction of this project prior to approval is guilty of violation of the public trust. I’ve been the most vocal, consistent Iowa House member standing against the Bakken pipeline. I’ve been with the landowners effected by the landowners in this struggle. It’s clear that the IUB is listening to power and money instead of the people of Iowa, so it’s time for the Legislature to step forward and clarify that eminent domain must only be used for a genuine public purpose. I’m proud to have been the first Iowa legislator to join The Climate Mobilization, a full-scale effort to combat the causes of climate change and to champion realistic solutions. The Bakken pipeline will be a threat to clean water and does nothing to reduce harmful emissions. It won’t even reduce the price of gas at the pump.
A. Wes Breckenridge
While the actions of the Iowa Utilities Board have managed to make both supporters and opponents of the Bakken pipeline project unhappy, the decision to approve the pipeline project has been perceived by many as a foregone conclusion; where the concerns of individual landowners and citizens were given full consideration in the face of pressure from big business and political interests. Most troubling was the Board’s decision to grant Dakota Access--a private company--the power to invoke eminent domain to use private land as part of a for-profit venture. While private landowners would be paid at market rates for easements on their properties, Dakota Access and associated businesses would reap the benefits from the project. Eminent domain should have been reviewed years ago so we would not be where we are today. The eminent domain law needs to be updated to clarify what is a public good to insure that if government is taking private land, it must be indeed for public good. In addition, the regulatory process should be as transparent as possible.
Q. Why do you feel you’d make an effective state representative?
A. Dan Kelley
I stand for those who are vulnerable. I’m focused on the men, women, and kids I represent, not making headlines. I build relationships with the people who put me in office. I am accountable to them, not political party bosses. I am focused on the job-at-hand, not running for higher office. I’m proud of my progressive voting record on behalf of working families and a better future for our kids. When I visit a constituent and ask for their vote and they respond with, “you bet, thanks for having our backs,” it makes me know all the long hours and effort I put in is making a difference. That’s why I’m in this and it’s why I’m committed to return to the Iowa House to represent the good people of Jasper County for a fourth term. Our comeback in Jasper County belongs to all of us, not me and not any other elected official. It’s an honor to serve as State Representative, and I’m focused on helping and encouraging everyone to take part in making Jasper County a great place to live, work, and raise a family.
A. Wes Breckenridge
I am a Jasper County native with extensive knowledge of our district. I have a proven 25 year history of public service. I am a police officer, parent, educator, and community volunteer. My career has allowed me to serve Jasper County as a Jasper County Sheriff’s Reserve Deputy, Prairie City Police Officer, Monroe Interim Chief, Newton Police Officer, as well as serving on many community action committees. Over time, I’ve built a network of relationships that extends across Jasper County. I enjoy meeting with others and hearing their stories, concerns and issues. I listen and discuss issues with others, even if we don’t agree. I understand the importance of open communications and learning from one another. My education, training and experience in public service have prepared me to serve as your State Representative. The support of my family and friends has been overwhelming and shows the strength of our campaign and their confidence in me to do the job. I will serve you with passion, dedication and heart.
Q. What do you feel is your most meaningful professional accomplishment of the past five years?
A. Dan Kelley
While I’ve been honored to be chosen by my peers to participate in two prestigious legislative leadership programs and have had some solid successes during six legislative sessions in environmental protection and renewable energy efforts, my most meaningful accomplishments happen when I’m able to help a neighbor or working family lift a burden or solve a problem. Many of the hours I spend working at the Capitol or at home involve individuals struggling to make sense of unfair and difficult situations. Perhaps someone needs help getting medications in a pinch, or a child is in a dangerous abusive situation, a family needs to connect with a local food bank to make ends meet, or a veteran needs help obtaining his or her benefits. When I’m able to spend my time at the Capitol, or at home, helping someone I represent solve a problem that makes their lives easier, well, give other politicians all the headlines they want, those are the days I leave work with a spring in my step.
A. Wes Breckenridge
I have had several meaningful accomplishments over the past five years. Serving on a critical incident stress management debriefing team, graduating from the FBI National Academy, and serving on the Newton Says No to Human Trafficking action committee are just few. The most rewarding and meaningful one would be serving as a member of the Newton Says No to Human Trafficking committee. This group was founded by two great women, Linda Pierce and Lynn Keller. They saw the need and had the vision to bring awareness to this growing issue. I was fortunate to become part of this great team with other county leaders to battle this problem. Up to 300,000 Americans under 18 are lured into the commercial sex trade every year. On any given day 150 children are being sex trafficked in Iowa. Over the past two years we have conducted numerous educational and awareness presentations across Jasper County. We have also partnered with the state in bringing educators to our schools and community organizations.
Q. How would you differentiate yourself from your primary opponent?
A. Dan Kelley
I have six year of experience representing the good people of Jasper County in the Iowa House. It’s been the honor of my life to represent my home town and surrounding communities. I’ve built a solid reputation in Newton, Jasper County and at the Capitol for being honest, hard-working, a good communicator, and sincere in my desire to serve. I stand for the progressive values the Jasper County Democratic party were built on; fairness, equality, social justice, and putting the little guy first. There’s too much at stake in this election and my supporters know they can’t afford to set this one out. They know we already have a conservative Republican party, we don’t need to conservative Democratic party my opponent represents. I’m very proud to run a low-budget, grassroots campaign. My opponent has some friends with deep-pockets and they’ve bought him billboards, full-page ads, and a downtown headquarters. I’m operating on $5, $10, and $20 donations and hour upon hour of hard-work from the best volunteers in the county and state. My opponent says he wants to unify the local Democratic party. Unfortunately, the only reason we lack unity right now is his decision to launch a primary campaign against a three term incumbent State Representative. This is a time when our party should be working together toward Election Day in November to take back the majority in the Iowa House and keep Donald Trump out of the White House. His efforts do nothing towards these goals. I ask for your support on, and before, June 7. I will continue to work hard on your behalf. We must put this primary behind us and work together as Democrats.
A. Wes Breckenridge
The biggest difference is I have the desire to listen, engage and build problem-solving partnerships. I will never turn away from meeting and listening to citizens. I will always be responsive, not just during elections. I will respond to your phone calls, emails, and messages. Another difference is with medical cannabis. My opponent does not support medical cannabis and I do. Many Iowans are suffering from illnesses where medical cannabis could be an effective treatment. I have visited with many individuals either suffering or who have family members suffering who aren’t able to get the treatment they need. Mr. Kelley voted against medical cannabis last session and voiced opposition during a LWVJC legislative coffee this session. Those suffering deserve a legislature that will work for them. Mr. Kelley says he supports our veterans, but his actions have not matched his words. My actions and votes will always follow my words and be substantive, not just symbolic. I will always support our veterans and thank them for their selfless service. Your voice is important and must be heard.