I am a thoracic and vascular surgeon, a small business owner, and most importantly, a husband and father of three sons. Like many Iowans, I am increasingly concerned about the size of government, resulting in the erosion of our liberties and the endangerment of our economic prosperity. I believe that most Iowans believe in the fundamental principles espoused in the founding documents of our nation and our state, and are frustrated that our political leaders and institutions have failed to live up to those ideals. Like many Iowans, I also believe that the solutions to the problems we face will not come from Washington, D.C., and that, in fact, that is where many of our problems actually arise. There is, however, a solution, one mandated by our very Constitution, that as a sovereign state, we are not merely permitted, but obliged, to govern ourselves in accordance with those founding principles.
As a parent, I believe that the foundation of moral behavior begins not in the school, but in the home. Likewise, I believe that good governance does not begin in Washington, D.C., but in our state, our counties, and in our communities. We cannot look beyond our state borders for help in confronting the challenges we face within them. The principle of self-government is plainly stated; that we should govern ourselves. Government is not the solution; we are the solution. If we citizens of Iowa can reestablish our state government in accordance with the principles of our national and state constitutions, we can be assured of our inalienable rights to liberty and prosperity. Iowa can reform itself to better serve its citizens, to serve as a model for other state governments, and can enjoy sustainable economic growth in harmony with its resources.
I am a candidate for the Iowa Senate from District 15. I hope that my candidacy will provide a forum for a discussion of the ideals of liberty and an exchange of ideas of importance to Iowans. If I secure your trust and win this election, I pledge to serve in accordance with the principles that established this great nation and state.