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Local government

Senator Joni Ernst's Opposition to Vital Aid Leaves Iowa's Local Governments in the Red

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

Senator Joni Ernst continues to stand in the way of vital relief for state and local governments in Iowa, rejecting new aid as "pork," "gimmicks," and a "bailout" for "bad choices." Despite Iowa communities facing major budget problems due to COVID-19, which has impacted at least 25% of local revenue, Ernst has sided with Mitch McConnell 98% of the time, pushing for a "bankruptcy route" that would set Iowa back for decades. Ernst's opposition comes as Iowa faces record unemployment filings, with over 235,000 in just five weeks, erasing tax revenue that local governments rely on for essential services.

Key Takeaways:

  • Senator Joni Ernst has repeatedly rejected new aid for state and local governments in Iowa, calling it "pork," "gimmicks," and a "bailout" for "bad choices."
  • Ernst's opposition comes as Iowa faces major budget problems due to COVID-19, with at least 25% of local revenue impacted.
  • Senator Ernst has sided with Mitch McConnell 98% of the time, who is pushing for a "bankruptcy route" that would set Iowa back for decades.
  • Ernst's refusal to act would have ramifications lasting decades, halting infrastructure projects, laying off frontline workers, and inhibiting efforts to boost mainstreet businesses.
  • The Iowa Democratic Party claims Ernst's opposition is a partisan, reckless barrier to relief Iowans need.
  • Senator Ernst proudly voted twice to green-light billions of dollars for massive corporations to pad their bottom line.
  • Ernst's priorities are clearly focused on supporting corporations over Iowa's local governments and communities.

Statistics:

  • At least 25% of local revenue in Iowa has been impacted by COVID-19.
  • Over 235,000 Iowans have filed for record unemployment in just five weeks.
  • Senator Joni Ernst has sided with Mitch McConnell 98% of the time.
  • Iowa faces major budget problems due to COVID-19.
  • Ernst's opposition to relief could lead to decades of halting infrastructure projects, laying off frontline workers, and inhibiting mainstreet businesses.

Sources:

  • Iowa Democratic Party (no date)

"Deriding Funding as "Pork" and a "Bailout" for "Poor Choices," Senator Ernst Has Opposed Vital Aid to Localities Devastated by the Pandemic"

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