Black endorses Hubbell for Dem Governor

Retired businessman Fred Hubbell may have more than a puncher’s chance in the crowded field of democratic gubernatorial candidates now he’s got a new ally in his corner.

Retired state senator Dennis Black, of Newton formally announced his support for Hubbel Wednesday, stating in a press release that “Iowa was in dire need of new leadership.”

In a statement released by Hubbell’s campaign Hubbell thanked Black for his endorsement, stating “I am honored to have the endorsement of Former Sen. Dennis Black, an experienced leader and public servant. I look forward to working with him to get Iowa growing, in Jasper County and around the state.”

Sen. Black has long been in Hubbell’s corner, having urged him to seek the state’s highest office for years. As a former lawmaker, Black said he’s convinced Hubbell has what it takes to make Iowa go. The fact that Hubbell is a political outsider doesn’t scare off the retired Senator, he thinks it gives him a distinct advantage over candidates in the crowded field.

“He’s a new face, a non-political face, a individual that knows how to deal with people, because he’s dealt with them, you can’t help but like him,” Black said.

In a statement released by his campaign Hubbell pointed out the extensive public and private experience that he brings to the table, promising to fix the problems plaguing the state.

“[Politicians] have consistently underfunded education, jeopardized Iowans’ health and allowed incomes to stagnate, all while failing to protect Iowa’s precious natural resources and ensure clean water,” said Hubbell.

On his website, www.fredhubbell.com Hubbell lays out his vision for Iowa.

“As Governor, I intend to get Iowa growing. My priorities are clear: fix Iowa’s budget crisis, invest in education at all levels to create skilled employees for the future, help grow small and mid-size businesses and get incomes rising across Iowa. We need to make health care more affordable and accessible throughout the state, and invest in modern infrastructure, including high-speed internet services,” Hubbell said.

Black cited Hubbell’s work on environmental issues as one of his biggest strengths. Iowans have a responsibility to take care of the state, and Black believes Hubbell is the right man for the job.

“He’s spent his life as a problem solver, and he’s been very much involved in conservation and environmental protection long before it became popular with politicians,” Black said.

If Hubbell can make his way out of a tough primary with plenty of competition Black said he thinks voters will ultimately put him on Terrace Hill, although he acknowledged Hubbell would face some tough tests, particularly against state senator Nate Boulton, a first-term senator whose district includes the east side of Des Moines and Pleasant Hill. Support from local trade unions gives Boulton an advantage Black admitted, but he still believes Hubbell represents the best option for Iowans.

“I have no problem with Nate as an individual, but I think he isn’t ready to be the leader of the state,” Black said.

Contact David Dolmage at 641-792-3121 ext. 6532 or ddolmage@newtondailynews.com