Government : Meet the Candidates: Dawn Driscoll, State Senate District 38 (R)

Editor's Note: Vinton Today invited candidates to introduce themselves to the voters and to share a little bit with you about their stance on the issues. We will publish these as they arrive.

My Name is Dawn Driscoll, and I am running for the Iowa State Senate Seat for District 38. I am writing to you to introduce myself to your readers. I would much rather be meeting as many of them as possible by door-knocking through the community, but the pandemic takes away this option. We have been calling and mailing. Hopefully, this printed introduction will reach out to some who we might have missed. So, here goes…

I have been married to Joe Driscoll for 19 years and have three children ages 16,14, and 12. I am an Iowan by choice. I was raised on my family's fifth-generation farm in rural western Illinois. I am proud to carry on the farming tradition and to pass this onto our children.

Currently, I am the Iowa County Farm Bureau President. As President, I have represented farmers at both the state and federal levels. I am an avid volunteer and have been for over a decade. I have served our schools, preschools, sports, and agricultural groups. I have also been a religious education teacher for 9 years.

My family and I run a purebred Angus cattle business and a row crop farm. I am also a recruiter with Hummer Agribusiness. I graduated from Western Illinois University with a BS in Agronomy.

Some of the issues that I see as important to District 38 are:

Supporting our Rural Economy- As a sixth-generation farmer, to say that I am passionate about agriculture is an understatement. Iowa's economy is largely based on agriculture, therefore a strong ag economy is good for all Iowans. A thoughtful, common-sense approach to a balanced budget, lower taxes, land and water conservation, and agricultural regulations will ensure that our communities continue to survive and grow.

Investing in Education: Being a mom of three, I have seen the impact of a good education and know firsthand the need to be able to meet the differing needs of all students. After announcing my candidacy, I made it a priority to attend school district meetings throughout District 38. I am pleased to say that prior to the pandemic, I achieved this goal. Each district has differing needs for funding, materials, and transportation. Knowing this, I will be able to find solutions that are not cookie-cutter but that will best meet the unique needs of our communities.

Supporting Law Enforcement - We are all lucky to be living in the small, tight-knit communities in District 38. Our law enforcement officers are our neighbors and friends. As a candidate, I have met with law enforcement officers across our district, have toured jails and the mental health facility. I have heard the concerns and needs that they have and have seen the love for the community they possess. I will stand with this vital part of our community that puts their lives on the line for each of us to ensure that their needs are met.

If you have questions for me, would like more information, or would like to help with our campaign, our website address is www.Driscoll4Senate.com.

I will put my Iowa Farm Strong work ethic to work for you in Des Moines. I appreciate your support and VOTES!