Tough times make me proud to represent Iowa

By Joni Ernst
Posted 8/26/20

These past few months have not been easy on folks in our state.

The coronavirus pandemic, and now, the Aug. 10 derecho, have tested Iowans and strained our resources.

But Iowans are strong, and …

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Tough times make me proud to represent Iowa

Posted

These past few months have not been easy on folks in our state.

The coronavirus pandemic, and now, the Aug. 10 derecho, have tested Iowans and strained our resources.

But Iowans are strong, and it’s times like these that make me so proud to represent our state.

Like everything that comes our way, we’re going to get through this – together.

And as always, I encourage anyone who needs assistance to reach out to my office. My staff and I stand ready to help in any way that we can. 

Last week, I’ve been traveling the state on my 99 County Tour, meeting with local leaders, and hearing directly from Iowans, to help get folks the support they need.

I’ve also launched a resource page on my website for Iowans who have been impacted by the derecho.

Visit ernst.senate.gov and click on COVID-19 Info.

Demanding national

media attention

After our state got hit by the equivalent of a Category 2 inland hurricane, there was nothing on the front page of any national news outlets.

And I heard the frustration of my fellow Iowans about the lack of attention from the national media.

That’s unacceptable. After seeing the damage firsthand, I joined Fox Report to highlight the challenges Iowans are facing to the national media.

I also penned a column in the Cedar Rapids Gazette calling on the national media to cover the derecho.

Fortunately for Iowans, President Trump visited the state on Aug .18 to hear about the derecho’s impact.

I’m grateful to both the President and Governor Reynolds for acting quickly to get Iowans the support we need as we work to recover.

 

Lending a helping hand

Iowans helping Iowans – that’s how we’re going to get through this.

I’ve been truly inspired by all the folks that are volunteering to assist others following the derecho.

Last week, I was able to thank some of these volunteers at the Hiawatha Community Shelter and the HACAP headquarters.

In Cedar Rapids, I joined the folks at Horizons to help deliver meals to Iowans in need in Linn County.

Horizons is just one example of the many Iowa nonprofits that have risen to the occasion to support our communities during both the derecho and COVID-19.