Democratic congressional candidate visits Newton

Democratic candidate Kim Weaver drew in more than 20 supporters during a public forum Saturday in Newton. Weaver is set to run a second time for Congress in Iowa’s 4th Congressional District in 2018 against Republican incumbent Steve King.

Inside a packed room at the Lemon Tree Tea House, Weaver, a resident of Sheldon, spoke to Newton citizens and attendees from surrounding counties about her viewpoints and “common sense” solutions to issues that Iowans are facing.

Phyllis Weeks, of Knoxville, said she coordinated the forum because she firmly believes in supporting all democratic candidates across the state of Iowa.

Weeks said she agreed with Weaver’s basic democratic principles, such as, Medicare for all, aid for seniors and support of industrial hemp.

“I wanted to introduce her to my fellow group of activists,” Weeks said. “Plus, I wanted to be a part of her early grassroots campaign.”

Weaver said she believes in revitalizing rural America by pushing rural broadband access, student loan debt relief by creating a national program that offers volunteer time as an alternative and industrial hemp for Iowan farmers and crop diversity.

“I really feel like I’m a voice for the people,” Weaver said. “I’m the one standing up front and saying this isn’t right.”

Weaver said this time around in her campaign she will consistently have people write letters to the editor to all the small town newspapers in her district.

“I believe in the power of small town newspapers,” Weaver said.

Weaver also intends to connect with students at Iowa State University and smaller universities in her district.

“We do a lot of social media and we try to hit them where they are,” Weaver said. “One thing I’ve learned is young people want to make sure they have a voice.”

Weeks said she reached out to Weaver about a month ago about holding a forum in Newton.

“I was very impressed when she responded right back to me and accepted,” Weeks said. “I want to thank her for taking the time to come here.”

Contact Kayla Langmaid at 641-792-3121 ext. 6513 or klangmaid@newtondailynews.com