Thank You Iowa

Dear All,
As I sit here at my keyboard it is hard to know where to begin. To merely say thank you to all of you who spent countless hours with me on the campaign trail does not seem adequate, but here it is - THANK YOU. 

You all know what happened by now.  We won a close race for Iowa Secretary of Agriculture.   

When I began this journey in the summer of 2005, I knew I would get to know Iowa in a whole new way.  I’ve driven nearly 90,000 miles and visited Iowa towns I didn’t know existed.  I’ve talked with 10s of thousands of Iowans about Iowa agriculture.  And after all that, I am more excited than tired! 

This is an election victory we all share.  Iowans from all political persuasions set aside partisan leanings and cast a vote for the vision of Iowa agriculture that we all share - one of opportunity and growth.  These are exciting times in Iowa agriculture! 

To my family and especially my wife, Cindy, I say thank you. There were months when I was home only three days. Running for any office takes sacrifice from the people closest to us.  The love and support I received from them kept me going. 

To all the agricultural groups, from the largest to the smallest in membership, thank you! We worked together as a team.

To all who helped on this race – a cast of thousands – thank you!  You put up signs, sent emails, called your friends and family, contributed funds, provided encouragement, walked in parades, got nominating signatures, provided a bed or a meal, brought together a group of your friends and family, spoke for our campaign at events and countless other activities.  I am forever grateful.

And last, to the people in Iowa who may not have a direct link to agriculture, but agreed with our message – thank you. You truly made a difference. It would have been easy for any one of you to overlook this race, but you connected with the vision we put forth and showed your support at the polls. 

Now the fun begins! Iowa is at the forefront of the renewable energy explosion. I look forward to helping us navigate this and other exciting agricultural opportunities.  Let’s work together to help Iowa be all it can be.

Thank you!