Des Moines Register – 5/7/20
LTE by Jerry Hageman, Waterloo
U.S. Sen. Joni Ernst, a retired military colonel, serving her first term, has come a long way from Red Oak since 1970. I also applaud her service as county auditor and state senator and am sure she has all Iowans’ interests at heart.
I live and work in Waterloo as a Navy Vietnam vet, Democrat, and union man who also wishes to see all Iowans do well. Recently, Ernst said Iowa has “fared pretty well” when it comes to the coronavirus. Lately the number of infections and deaths has continued to climb; so maybe we can fare a little better with help.
She has pledged to lower prescription drug prices but takes money from Big Pharma. She has voted to eliminate the ACA, which would reinstate lifetime coverage caps and bring back the pre-existing coverage problems. As an Alliance for Retired Americans member, I would like less talk about cutting Social Security and Medicare. During this COVID-19 situation, more money spent on senior and retiree issues would be good. A vote in favor of paid family leave and extra dollars to help cities and states help their front-line and laid-off workers is needed. Finally, thanks for the efforts on affordable vaccines.