McKean prioritizes the citizens of Iowa

To the Editor,

   We have known Andy and Connie McKean since moving to Anamosa in 1986. They have both been very involved in our community through numerous volunteer and professional activities including the schools, their church, local conservation projects, and local government. Their generous contributions of land to the Wapsi Loop Trail project connecting Anamosa to the Hale Bridge and Wapsipinicon State Park helped make this worthwhile project possible.

   Andy will prioritize the citizens of Iowa, especially those of Jones and Jackson counties, over the interests of external forces and party politics. As both a State Senator and State Representative, Andy worked in bipartisan fashion to govern with the best interests of his constituency as his primary guide. Needless to say, party bosses and outside special interest groups do not want independent people like Andy elected to office!

   Connie has served as Andy's legislative clerk in Des Moines. This was a bonus for Jones and Jackson counties as we had two very talented, thoughtful, caring people working on our behalf. We have known Andy and Connie for 38 years. They are people of integrity and good character.

   It is unlikely any two of us will agree on every issue 100 percent of the time. Recognizing this, our country's founders designed the government to allow all voices to be heard with the expectation citizen legislators would fairly represent the concerns of their constituents and work together to accomplish optimum legislative outcomes. Andy is this kind of citizen legislator and the kind of person we need to have representing us in Des Moines.

Charles and Mary Sue Vernon

Anamosa, Iowa