Opinion

To the Editor,

     Everyone needs to borrow money, whether it’s for unexpected healthcare costs, utility bills or other basic items. But not everyone is treated the same.

     Have you ever borrowed $200 or $300 at interest rates of 350 to 400 percent?

     Probably not. You have better alternatives.

     Things are different, however, when lower-income working Iowans need to borrow $200 or $300. They actually pay triple digit interest rates to 350 to 400 percent because that’s what Iowa lawmakers allow the “payday loan” industry to charge!

     January is both Human Trafficking and Stalking Awareness Month. Trafficking and stalking are problems that continue to plague our society. Estimates show there are more than 40 million victims of human trafficking around the world, most of which are women and children. It’s happening in Iowa too. Fortunately, there are programs available to help Iowans who are survivors of this atrocious criminal activity.

To the Editor,

     Having grown up in a suburb of Seattle, I have come to genuinely appreciate living 45 years in this small town called Monticello. Where else can I walk into the local hardware store or floral shop or grocery store and be greeted by name? Where else can I ride my bike or make a five-minute drive to get most of my needs met? I can also walk into a number of our local churches to attend a special service and be welcomed into their fellowship, even though I’m not a member.

     A new year is a good time to take stock of what’s in store for the next 12 months. Like many Iowans, I take time to count my blessings. Representing Iowans in the U.S. Senate is an honor I don’t take for granted. And when the 116^th Congress opened for business on Jan. 3, I was especially grateful to receive a unanimous vote in the United States Senate to serve as the 91^st Senate President pro tempore. This is one of only three constitutional offices designated by the nation’s founders. Its primary duties include presiding over the daily business of the U.S.