Government : Meet The Candidates: Tom Gerhold, Iowa House District 75 (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 Representative Tom Gerhold, and I'm running for re-election for Iowa House District 75, which includes all of Benton County, and Hilton, Honey Creek, Marengo, and Washington townships in Iowa County.
Almost guaranteed, the number one issue on everyone's mind is the COVID-19 pandemic and the effects on everyone's personal wellbeing, healthcare, and the economy. I will be working with other legislators in June to help get the state back up and running 100% as soon as possible.
I'm for a smaller government and less taxes. People know how to spend their own money better than politicians. I'm working in the State House trying to reduce inheritance taxes, and all taxes for that matter. After all, it is your money!
I'm also a strong supporter of the 2nd Amendment. The right to keep and bear arms shall not be infringed.
I'm pro-life, as unborn people have the same rights as anyone else.
Agriculture is the backbone of Iowa and the country, and I strongly support and promote Iowa's farmers and their products. Please buy local or Iowa products!
As the state gradually recovers from this pandemic, Iowans can and will make responsible and informed choices for themselves in order to be safe and COVID-19 free, and get through this as fast as possible.
The state of Iowa was in very excellent fiscal shape when the pandemic hit, and we will recover faster because the Republican-led legislature had a responsible budget for the last several years.
I am honored to serve you and would appreciate your support!