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Convention Report from Iowa’s 4th
Congressional District

by Paul
Deaton

Iowa Democratic Veterans’ Caucus (IDVC) member Larry Olk reported to Blog for Iowa that 203 delegates registered for the 4th Congressional District convention in Mason City. Along with the delegates there were another 40 media, visitors, campaign workers and youth attendees. The district chair was pleased with the turnout.

Larry addressed the convention on veterans’ issues, speaking on the need to address post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) among Iowa veterans. Larry recently chaired a meeting on the subject at Wartburg College in Waverly. He said, “The general public does not understand most of it and my sense is that a lot of veterans don't either.  During my address to the district I focused on that point by saying that I have been deeply involved with one small sliver of the pie and even I don't understand all of it.  I did tell them, though; I will ask them for vigorous support on some of the issues we are addressing and that I am asking for their trust and confidence in the IDVC that we are doing the right and honorable thing (with regard to PTSD).”

The conventions are a lot about the speeches of politicians who attend and there was no shortage in the 4th District. Lieutenant Governor Patty Judge spoke, as did Secretary of State Michael Mauro. Francis Thicke, candidate for Secretary of Agriculture was making the rounds of conventions as well and stopped in Mason City.

Tom Fiegen and Bob Krause, candidates to be the junior United States Senator from Iowa, spoke, and the third candidate, Roxanne Conlin, sent surrogate HD-13 Representative Sharon Steckman.

Bill Maske is running to replace the incumbent to represent the 4th district in the United States Congress. Olk reported, “Bill Maske was there for the day and he was the focus of our fund raiser that evening.  Personally, I am impressed with Bill.  He is smart, articulate, hardworking, and a consummate professional.  He is well prepared to take on Latham and wants several debates across the state-no rules-no holds barred.  I believe he is ready to do that.  He has many connections in the fourth district on the education side and is respected by teachers.  It seems like his entire family is some way involved in education.  And trust me, his entire family is involved in the campaign.” Without a primary challenge, Maske can focus on beating Latham.

By all accounts, the delegates at the 4th district convention are ready for the campaign.