Political campaigns should be about ideas, leadership, and the future of our communities–not personal attacks aimed at families and small businesses.

Recently, Annette Sweeney and her campaign chose to distribute misleading and negative mailers throughout Senate District 27 targeting me, my family, and the business we have worked tirelessly to build. The ads reflected a style of politics that I believe falls short of what Iowa voters deserve. Rather than encouraging an honest discussion about issues and priorities, they focused on creating division and casting doubt on the character and reputation of others.

My family did not sign up to be dragged into political attacks. Like many Iowa families, we have spent years working long hours, making sacrifices, creating jobs, and serving our community. Our business represents hard work, integrity, and the livelihoods of people who depend on it every day. To see it become the subject of political attacks was disappointing and, in my view, beneath the standard Iowans should expect from those seeking public office.

I understand campaigns can become heated, and I welcome honest debate about policy, leadership, and vision. Voters should absolutely ask tough questions and compare records. But there is a clear difference between discussing issues and making attacks designed to damage reputations and divide communities.

I still believe most Iowans are tired of negativity. They want leaders who focus on lowering costs, supporting families, strengthening small businesses, protecting freedoms, and solving real problems — not winning elections through personal attacks.

While this campaign has come to an end, my commitment to our community has not. I will continue serving, supporting local businesses, and advocating for the values I was raised with: hard work, accountability, and respect for others, even when we disagree.

Politics should never come at the expense of decency.