Note From the Chair

Hey folks! Rita Hart here.

Last week was chaotic. Donald Trump's threat of a trade war between two of our closest allies, Canada and Mexico, was certainly unsettling. As Trump continues to keep this threat alive, it's important we understand the effect this could have on Iowans. An unnecessary trade war with Canada would drive up the cost of food, prescription drugs, farm machinery, fertilizer, and necessary goods that Iowans are already having a hard time affording. 

House Republicans are also working to cut $200 billion using the Energy and Commerce Committee, the Committee that oversees Medicaid. Cuts to Medicaid are on the table, which could impact the almost 700,000 Iowans who rely on the program.

We’re going to have to rely on each other for the next two years because our representatives in Congress simply won’t be there for us. If you have time to volunteer, please visit our website for more information.

Sincerely,

Rita Hart

IDP Chair

Take Action

Join the IDP at one of the many events being hosted in every corner of the state. See the full list of events by visiting iowademocrats.org and clicking the “Calendar” button in the top right corner.

Democrat Breakfast

When: Sat, February 8, 9am

Where: Ottumwa Cafe’ by County Kitchen

Description: This is a social, party building event with updates regarding party news and upcoming events. Open to the public.

President’s Day Soup Luncheon

When: Sun, February 16, 1pm

Where: One Sprint Capital Place, Knoxville, Iowa 50138

Description: Soup Luncheon with Sean Bagniewski. 

In the News

The New York Times Republicans Cheer Trump Tariffs as Their Voters Brace for Pain

Yahoo Red states create their own DOGE efforts to cut state government

Bleeding Heartland RFK Jr a dangerous choice for Health and Human Services

On the Internet

Iowa House Democrats: This session, we’ve got an opportunity to lower the costs of housing, childcare, and healthcare. It’s time to put politics aside and get it done for the people of Iowa. #ialegis #PeopleOverPolitics 

Iowa Senate Democrats: In 2025-26, Heartland AEA, which provides critical services to nearly 900,000 Iowa students, will be forced to consolidate resources and lay-off staff thanks to Republican lawmakers’ funding cuts. Read more here: https://bit.ly/4grw4a8

Iowa Democratic Party: Trump is drafting an executive order to abolish the Department of Education, which would gut funding for public schools and hit rural and low-income schools the hardest.

Republicans have spent years attacking Iowa's public schools. Now, Trump is trying to finish the job.