What’s Important to Iowans?

By: Katie Zimmermann

I have spent the past few days calling Iowans on behalf of Senator Cory Booker. As I engaged with our nation’s first voters I asked people over and over again: “What issues are most important to you?” In nearly every discussion, constituents reiterated that their top priority is to get President Donald Trump out of office. I was surprised by this and had expected people to focus on the significance of healthcare, taxes, or national security to them.

Democratic candidates vying for Iowans’ support have reflected these sentiments in their town halls. Today I attended events for Senator Elizabeth Warren and former Mayor Pete Buttigieg. Secretary Julian Castro introduced Warren. In his speech, he emphasised that Warren is the most liked out of the top three candidates that are currently leading in the polls. Castro stated that 25% of voters said they would be upset if Senator Bernie Sanders or Buttigieg are the Democratic Party Nominee. He explained that, because of this, Warren will attract more constituents to the polls and be the Democrat’s best chance at beating Trump in November. Similarly, in the beginning of his speech, Buttigieg said that one day the sun will rise over Iowa and Trump will no longer be the president of the United States. 

It was great to be able to come to Des Moines and learn from Iowans themselves about what is important to them. Furthermore, while I had not recognized most voters’ top issue, Warren and Buttigieg made it evident that they are well aware and actively working to prove their electability. I am eager to attend more candidates’ events to see how they address this prominent issue.