John Franzen’s Listening Post

It’s time for your voice to be heard!

When I first decided to run for Representative of Iowa’s 16th District, someone asked me, “Who do you think you are to run for office?” Well, I’m a father, a husband, a tax payer and a citizen. I’ve been a farmer, a small business owner and a student in northeast Iowa. But most importantly, I’m a friend and neighbor to many good people here in District 16, and I share the concerns and hopes that come with everyday life here.

As I think about my neighbors in northeast Iowa, three things come to mind:

Excellence - You deserve the best education, the safest roads, the best health care, the best professional and recreational opportunities, and a clean, healthy environment. As your Representative, I will carry your ideas and concerns to the Capitol, and work to make northeast Iowa the best it can be, whether you’re working, playing, raising a family or retiring here.

Responsibility - To fully enjoy living in northeast Iowa, we need to uphold our responsibilities to our neighbors: seniors, children, low income families, farmers, small business owners and veterans. We must make sure that our air and water are clean, our landscape is protected, our schools have the best teachers and tools available, and our neighbors have reasonable access to health care.

Possibility - I believe District 16 should be the first place to look when people think of buying a home, opening a business or taking a vacation. The people of District 16 are intelligent, creative, caring and dynamic. I will work every day to make sure that your ideas flourish and you have every available opportunity to succeed.

I’m committed to serving the people of northeast Iowa - that begins with listening to you and understanding your concerns. This website isn’t just a place for me to offer my positions, it’s a place for you to share your ideas and ask questions. Please feel free to contact me through the link in the sidebar, or leave a comment on any open post.

Thanks for the opportunity to be your voice in Des Moines.

John

It’s our future - let’s do something about it!

Can you believe it?  We’re two days from the State Primary.  It’s been a long several months of campaigning, and now the rush of last minute candidate advertising is filling mailboxes, newspapers and airwaves.

We’re in a unique position in northeast Iowa - four Democratic candidates for State Rep. and four Democratic candidates for Congress.  This may be the most important election cycle some of us will ever experience and, locally, it shows in the field of fine candidates who are willing to step up and serve us.  I hope you’ll take advantage of this amazing opportunity and head to the polls on Tuesday.

Polls are open from 7am-9pm.  You can still vote by Absentee Ballot, as well.  Absentee Ballots need to be postmarked June 2nd to qualify but you can turn them into the County Auditor’s office through June 3rd.    If you’re not sure where your polling site is, you can call the County Auditor’s office at 563-382-5085.

I appreciate all the support I’ve received from voters in District 16, over the last year.  These are tough times for some of us and even a $10 campaign contribution can put a serious dent in our wallets.  I’m grateful that so many of you believe I’m the right candidate to represent you in Des Moines, and I want to make something very clear:  I don’t intend to disappoint you!

Low wages, health care, our children’s education, the creep of big business into our agricultural environment, lack of good jobs, record gas prices, environmental issues - I share your concerns because my life and my family are affected by these same issues.  But know this - when I’m elected, I will stand up and fight for the families of northeast Iowa.  My voice in Des Moines will be your voice.  I’ve said it many times and I couldn’t be prouder to say it now:  I am from northeast Iowa and I am for northeast Iowa.

Now it’s up to you.   I need your vote.  I need you to make a stand for Change and a better Iowa.  Tuesday June 3rd.  It’s our future - let’s do something about it!

See you at the polls!

Meet John! Ask questions! Get ready to vote!

John will be participating in a Democratic Candidate Forum in a few weeks and you’re invited! It’s a great opportunity to meet John and the other candidates, ask questions and prepare for the June 3rd Primary. Hope to see you there!

State Representatives District 16 Forum and other local Democratic candidates
Tuesday May 13th, 2008
7 p.m. at the Decorah City Hall, Council Chambers
For further info contact Lyle Otte, 382-3137

Scott -

I’m excited!

Well, folks, the paperwork has been submitted and I’m officially a Democratic candidate for State Representative of Iowa’s 16th District. And I am excited!

I’m excited because I know that things are good, here in northeast Iowa, but we can make them better! I’m excited about the opportunity to represent you and be your voice in our Capitol! I’m excited about the opportunity to meet thousands of intelligent, dynamic people who care about Iowa’s future and the role we play in making this the best District in the state!

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