March 28, 2024

Check out the candidates, vote

I am a registered Democratic voter but, over my adult life, I have voted for the the person I considered the best for the office — whether the candidate was a Democrat, Republican, independent or affiliated with a third party. To my mind, public service is all about service — not primarily for individual gain or acknowledgement. We can all identify candidates and office holders who seem to seek personal glory and benefit rather than service and doing the best for all.

While I have voted for and contributed money to Dan Kelley in the past, I will not vote for him in the June 7 primary. Dan Kelley’s actions and words especially during and since the 2014 elections have made it clear to me that his benefit has now become more important than the office he holds. Voting decisions in the Legislature, walking out of constituent meetings earlier this year, his treatment of the local press, statements and charges his campaign has made in recent weeks, etc. have led to my decision.

We need a Representative for House District 29 who will listen and respond, who will work for all the residents of this District, who will be pragmatic and who does not see compromise as a failure. We need to get things done in Iowa. We need a Representative who will go to Des Moines and work for the core issues that impact all of us wherever we fall on the political spectrum.

I believe that person is Wes Breckenridge. Wes is extremely qualified for this position through his many years as law enforcement officer, teacher and more. Wes listens, and he responds. I know that he works incredibly hard. He embodies public service. I believe he, working with other legislators, will get things done in Des Moines — initiatives in mental health, education, the environment and in other areas that will benefit all of us.

I am impressed that three labor unions (AFSCME, Teamsters, and the Iowa Federation of Labor AFL-CIO) have endorsed Wes Breckenridge. Endorsing a primary challenger to an incumbent is very rare. Wes Breckenridge is the best person for this office. I will vote for Wes Breckenridge on June 7.
 
Kevin Engel
Newton