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Columnists

This occurs when officials fail to use their eyes and ears

At the risk of blurring the increasingly fuzzy line between church and state, here is a Gospel reading for public employees and elected officials, according to Matthew: “But blessed are your eyes, for they see; and your ears, for they hear.” Unfortunately, it does not take much looking ...

Brass Tacks from Rural Iowa: A session to remember come November

Earlier this year, I wrote that I didn’t have high hopes for this Iowa legislative session. In that regard, they didn’t disappoint when they gaveled out on May 3rd! After a lot of bluster last session with no action, this year lawmakers finally passed some form of property tax reform. But ...

Bible Truth or Tradition: Old Earth or New Earth?

If we truly want to read and understand the Bible, there are principles that need to be adhered to for scripture to speak for itself and interpret itself. For example: • Allowing scripture to define the words of scripture. • Understanding the immediate, remote and cultural context of a ...

Passing a strong Farm Bill that delivers for rural America

When I came to Congress, I was committed to giving farmers, producers, and working families a seat at the table and delivering results for those who make Iowa’s 4th district a strong and productive community. Serving one of the largest agricultural districts in the nation, I kept a clear ...

When Main Street thrives, so does America

For 250 years, our nation has been built on innovation coming from Main Street storefronts, rows of rolling corn fields, and mechanic shop workbenches. These unassuming yet extraordinary spots in every corner of America have been essential to helping our nation thrive and to setting so many of ...

The Barker Bulletin: Sine Die

Last weekend brought the adjournment of the 91st General Assembly “Sine Die.” It’s been the ultimate privilege being a voice for Story and Marshall Counties in the Iowa House. After a marathon 34 hour weekend session, we added meaningful property tax reform to the list of accomplishments ...