Letter to the Editor: Kayla Koether's candidacy inspires me

(The following Letter to the Editor has been submitted by Jodi Enos-Berlage of Ridgeway):

I have never been more inspired by any candidate--running for any office, at any time, than I am about Kayla Koether, who is running for Iowa House District 55.  My enthusiasm for Kayla is not centered on her party, nor her specific positions; rather, her vision, approach, and exceptional leadership ability.  In a world that feels as if all in politics has turned toxic and divided, where bills at the Iowa Statehouse get written in secret and rammed through by whatever party is in power, Kayla offers the opposite—a willingness to listen and to collaborate, coupled with the leadership to show others the way.  Kayla has the rare ability, and the confidence, to stand up in a room of disagreeing people and literally change the conversation.  

Kayla's credentials include her NE Iowa farm background, her top-standing in her rural NE Iowa high school, her self-designed major in International Agricultural and Rural Development at one of the top colleges in Iowa (and the country), and her subsequent work in NE Iowa agencies whose common thread involves broad service to improve the lives of NE Iowans, e.g., Iowa State Extension, NE Iowa Food and Fitness, and the Winneshiek Energy District.

Kayla brings a work ethic that is second to none and a vison for NE Iowa that includes everyone.  Her listening-focused Barnstorming Tour this summer to over 15 NE Iowa towns, such as Frankville, Ossian, Festina, and Hawkeye, demonstrates her approach and commitment to all. Regardless of age, zip code, or political stripe, if you live in District 55, Kayla wants to hear from you.  Her mission, and central campaign platform, is to revitalize rural communities to ensure opportunities and quality of life for all, whether a farmer, small businessperson, retiree, public employee, parent, student, or young entrepreneur.  

Significantly, Kayla's inspiration for her platform developed from her own strong desire to reject the Iowa 'brain drain' (by taking a well-paying out-of-state urban job), and instead return to rural NE Iowa and continue farming—despite the challenges she faced in trying to do so.  As a member of the Iowa and Winneshiek County Farm Bureau, I know that developing avenues for young and beginning farmers was and is a top concern.  I cannot imagine a better advocate for this issue at the statehouse than a young person that has her feet on the ground trying (and struggling) to do it.  

Kayla's authenticity is striking. Her innovative ideas, long term vision, inclusive and collaborative approach are extraordinary. But perhaps more than anything, I have been impressed by her sheer courage to run for office.  I urge you to support this courage--and the future of Northeast Iowa rural communities--with your vote. Act now, as early voting is open at the Courthouse and through absentee ballot.  Kayla will bring a refreshing change to the statehouse and will be a public servant in every sense of the word.  The approach she champions represents the path forward."