Decorah resident Thomas Hansen says he's running for Congress

Decorah resident Thomas Hansen has announced he will be seeking the Republican Party nomination in Iowa's First Congressional District.

The 56-year-old Hansen is an organic farmer who also owns a refrigeration business.  He is currently the Winneshiek County Republican Party Chair, although he once ran as a Democratic candidate for State Assembly against Republican Chuck Gipp.

Hansen grew up in New York and Nevada before moving to Winneshiek County 30 years ago after marrying his wife, the former Jeanette Wendling of Decorah.

Hansen says he is running for Congress because he believes government should be our servant, not our master.  Says Hansen, "given the proper education and opportunity, anyone can climb the social-economic ladder as far as they wish their own fortitude to take them."

A statement released by Hansen stated, "I have decided to run for the office of Representative in Iowa's First Congressional District because I am disturbed by the attempts of those who believe government is our master and needs to be involved in every aspect of our lives."

Iowa's First Congressional District is now represented by Democrat Abby Finkenauer of Dubuque, who defeated incumbent Republican Rod Blum in the 2018 election.