Republican Shannon Lundgren is seeking her fifth term in the Iowa House of Representatives and is facing a challenge from Democrat Carolyn Wiezorek.
The two are facing off in the race for House District 65, which covers much of rural Dubuque County, and includes towns like Peosta, Epworth, Farley and Dyersville.
Iowa’s News Now asked both candidates a few questions to let voters know more about them ahead of the Nov. 5 election.
Shannon Lundgren
Hometown: Dubuque, Iowa
Current Residence: Peosta, Iowa, since 2006
What one issue is your priority once you take office?
As the incumbent, there isn’t just one priority, as I have been passionate about many issues since my first election. Healthcare Access is critical to me and my constituents, especially in rural areas. However, I also focus on energy issues and ensuring that energy is reliable, sustainable, and affordable. Iowa has one of the lowest energy costs in the nation, but we are also seeing increases, and during record inflation, it is taking a toll on our families. I also support our tax cuts, we know how to spend our money better than the government does, and Iowan’s deserve to keep more money in their pockets.
What makes you qualified for this political seat?
First, I am an everyday Iowan who works full-time and helps run our family businesses because our family faces the same issues my constituents face. I am also a good listener. I have always made one promise, and that was to listen, whether we agree or not, and I have always kept that promise. But as the incumbent, I have lived through the learning curve of serving in elected office. I have accelerated myself as a valuable caucus member, serving for two years as the House Health and Human Services Chair and the past two General Assemblies as the House Commerce Chair, and I am the first woman to have done s.
What, if any, policy change do you want to bring if elected? (Please choose one topic.)
I want to address the negative impact that pharmacy benefit managers have on access to rural healthcare by forcing locally owned and operated pharmacies to close because they are not reimbursed for the acquisition cost of the prescriptions they are dispensing. The Federal Government created this middle-man industry that has driven the costs of prescription drugs for those who need them, forcing the average family to choose between medication and putting food on the table.
Iowa’s ‘fetal heartbeat’ law went into effect, but most Iowans (59% per DM Register Poll https://bit.ly/3BtkgWa ) disapprove of the law. What would you change about the law, if anything?
First, I would look at the question the poll was asking. In my experience, Iowans don’t think abortion should be used as birth control but do agree that instances such as the life/health of the mother, rape/incest, and fetal abnormality not compatible with life are exceptions that Iowan’s agree should exist, and they do so under the law. Now that the Heartbeat bill is law, I think we need to shift focus to policies that will support and promote strong families. I think this becomes increasingly important in the cases of unplanned pregnancies or parents struggling with infertility.
What is your stance on Iowa’s current tax code, and what do you think needs changing?
Tax codes are complicated. It isn’t just income tax (which Republicans have lowered to a flat 3.8% tax and eliminated tax on retirement income). Still, we also need to look at property taxes and levying authorities. Iowans feel the pinch as their property taxes increase based on assessed value. There are too many pieces in the pie, and we need to continue to work on simplifying the tax code while keeping Iowa an affordable place to live.
How do you view Iowa’s education system, and what is the most important thing to pay attention to?
Education is a top priority, and allowing parents to choose the best education opportunities for their children is essential for our students’ success. Iowa has increased education spending yearly since Republicans have had control, and we have not cut spending once. But what is the return on investment? How much money is enough? So, we need to set the money discussion aside and have honest conversations about student outcomes and how to prepare our kids best to be successful adults. That includes listening to what teachers need in the classroom, what requirements, regulations, and expectations we put on our districts that are burdensome, and giving parents the final say in their children’s educational experience.
What is something voters should know about you?
I ran for office because my family and I were not being represented or listened to. I am dedicated to putting the citizens of District 65 first. I return every phone call, email, and text message that I receive from constituents, whether a Republican, Democrat, or Independent; if you live in District 65, I will do everything in my power to help you with an issue or concern that involves state government, and if it is a federal issue, I will get you to the correct elected official. We can never agree 100%, but I will listen and take your concerns to heart when I decide how to vote.
Carolyn Wiezorek
Hometown: Dubuque, Iowa
Current Residence: 15941 Derby Grange Rd. Dubuque, IA
What one issue is your priority once you take office?
I would like to strengthen public education in the state.
What makes you qualified for this political seat?
I am an educator who is good at learning, involving stakeholders, seeking multiple possible solutions to problems, and considering the potential consequences of various decisions.
What, if any, policy change do you want to bring if elected? (Please choose one topic.)
I would like to repeal HF2612, the bill regarding Area Education Agencies (AEAs). Over 99% of Iowans voiced opposition to this bill, yet Republicans in the state passed it.
Iowa’s ‘fetal heartbeat’ law went into effect but most Iowans (59% per DM Register Poll https://bit.ly/3BtkgWa ) disapprove of the law. What would you change about the law, if anything?
I would like to repeal this bill and restore rights in Roe v. Wade. I believe that women, their spouses/partners, and their doctors should make reproductive decisions and not legislators.
What is your stance on Iowa’s current tax code and what do you think needs changing?
I believe that Iowa’s current income tax plan will burden the middle class/working class, and those most vulnerable, while benefiting the wealthiest. In addition, adding an amendment to the constitution prohibiting changes to tax law before one knows the consequences of said law is irresponsible.
How do you currently view Iowa’s education system and what needs the most attention?
I think educators need more freedom and guidance on how to make learning more “hands-on” and integrated, reflecting real-life. Lessons need to tap into students’ natural curiosity and be more active. We need to focus on developing transferable skills and less on those that are easily measured through multiple-choice tests.
What is something voters should know about you?
I am running to truly represent the constituents of District 65, and Iowa. I believe in term limits, campaign finance reform, transparency in government, and accountability to the people.
