Last Saturday, I ran into my friend Colton Griffin from Moville, who was showing at the State Fair.

Last year, after his friend Hope passed away, Colton made sure her bucket calf, Taffy, was still shown at the Fair. Colton is the future of the 4th District and our great state.

For my 39 County Tour stop on Wednesday, I toured Cooperative Energy Company in Sibley to discuss how homegrown Iowa fuels can make America energy independent again.

Instead of importing foreign oil to meet our energy needs, I will continue to prioritize domestic energy production in the 4th District.

Between stops on my 39 County Tour, I always enjoy having unscheduled conversations with constituents and hearing their concerns. Last week, I spoke with a cattle producer in Dunlap who told me he’s concerned about the big meat packers and the current market costs.

We need to pass my Cattle Price Discovery and Transparency Act to hold the packers accountable and ensure our independent producers get a fair price.

Last weekend, I stopped by the Iowa Agribusiness Radio Network tent at the State Fair to talk about 4th District agriculture, our hardworking farmers and producers, and inflation that is crushing our farms and small businesses.

We also talked about my legislative priorities, such as my Cattle Price Discovery and Transparency Act to support our independent producers.

IN CASE YOU MISSED IT: RECORD-BREAKING YEAR FOR GOVERNOR'S CHARITY STEER SHOW

The Iowa Governor's Charity Steer Show started in 1983 at the Iowa State Fair to raise money for charity.

This year, a new record of $440,000 was raised for the Ronald McDonald House Charities of Iowa.

Thank you and congratulations to everyone involved in this outstanding cause!

Thanks to Senator Grassley's leadership on this issue, millions of Americans will be able to buy hearing aids without a prescription. This rule was finalized and is expected to be in full swing by October of this year.