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Columnists

No party for old liberals

In 2004, I served as independent presidential candidate Ralph Nader’s Iowa coordinator. (That was long before evolution made of me the stalwart President Trump supporter I presently am.) Back then, it was common for Nader’s critics to disparage as “wasted votes” ones cast for him. His ...

Life

Afew weeks ago, I participated in a “Care-a-Thon” for the AFLAC Cancer and Blood Disorders Center of Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta. For 25 years, my flagship radio station, WSB Radio in Atlanta, has raised millions of dollars to fund resources for children battling cancer and blood ...

The Barker Bulletin: Sunshine and summertime

People often think legislators get a “break” after session, but I have quickly found out that is not true. The work continues as I use this summer to meet with constituents and stakeholders to better understand their issues and concerns and to prepare to hit the ground running when session ...

‘One, Big, Beautiful Bill’ is jet fuel for our economy

Among several issues that Americans report as their highest priorities, a strong economy usually tops the list. That makes complete sense. After all, a strong economy means bigger paychecks, more jobs, and greater opportunities for families, farmers, workers, and businesses in Iowa and ...

Marshalltown’s momentum is real and just beginning

I now have passed the four-year mark leading the Marshalltown Area Chamber of Commerce. On Aug.  2, I marked that milestone, a reminder of how long economic development can take to gain traction yet how worthwhile that persistence is once momentum builds. Today the economic energy in ...

The One Big Beautiful Bill leaves Iowa small businesses holding the bag

Last week, politicians, including Senator Joni Ernst, and a few handpicked business owners in Cedar Rapids held a roundtable to celebrate President Trump’s “One Big Beautiful Bill” as a win for small business. It should be noted that the participants in these types of press events are ...