When you think of the Iowa State Capitol building, what things first come to mind?  The beautiful architecture, the hard work done in the name of Iowa families, the solemn reverence for the history made in the halls?

Unfortunately, this week brought to the forefront a sad image of how politics has devolved, when a high-ranking Republican lawmaker thought it was appropriate to express his feelings by flipping off people who disagree with him.  This is a new low in the decorum I have witnessed in the six years I have served in the legislature.

What does it say about the state of our society that this lude gesture was applauded and praised by not only the crowd of like-minded people but by other lawmakers? Not only was this a childish display but coming off the heels of an attempted insurrection at the nation’s capital, it was a dangerous statement to anyone that believes violence solves the current political animosity so prevalent today.

Lawmakers should behave better than second graders who just discovered they can use bad words to get a laugh.

Having differences of opinions is built into the process of our work, you cannot avoid it.  I regularly disagree with members of the opposite party, but I refuse to communicate in a way that I wouldn’t allow my children to behave. My constituents deserve better. The state of Iowa deserves better.

Thank you for giving me the opportunity to serve you in the Iowa House. I look forward to hearing from you.