State Senator Zach Wahls stopped in Orange City on Tuesday as part of his “Iowans Over Insiders” tour, meeting with residents for about an hour of discussion and questions.
Wahls used the visit to highlight his campaign priorities and connect with voters in northwest Iowa.
He is seeking the Democratic nomination for U.S. Senate in a race for an open seat. The position is currently held by Republican Joni Ernst, who is not seeking re-election.
Focus on Rural Engagement
Wahls told attendees that Democrats need to spend more time in communities like Orange City.
He said building those relationships starts with direct conversations.
Economic Concerns Take Center Stage
Wahls said economic pressure is one of the biggest concerns he hears across Iowa.
Push to Limit Political Influence
A major part of Wahls’ message focused on reducing the role of money in politics.
Wahls also adds that he plans to reject corporate PAC money as part of his campaign.
He also outlined proposals to ban stock trading by members of Congress and pursue changes to campaign finance laws.
Term Limits and Government Reform
Wahls told the Orange City audience he has pledged to serve no more than two terms (12 years) if elected.
He framed the pledge as part of a broader effort to bring new leadership to Washington.
Wide-Ranging Q&A
The event included a question-and-answer session covering a variety of topics.
Wahls said he supports a pathway to legal status for non-violent immigrants and broader immigration reform. He also called for stronger oversight of artificial intelligence, particularly for younger users, and in an interview with reporters afterwards, expressed support for legalizing marijuana.
Wahls also said that protecting civil rights remains a priority.
Campaign Background
Wahls was first elected to the Iowa Senate in 2018 and is currently serving his second term. He represented District 37 from 2019 to 2023 and now serves District 43. He is currently the youngest serving member of the Iowa Senate.
Wahls is originally from Marshfield, Wisconsin. He attended the University of Iowa before getting his master’s degree in public affairs from Princeton. He became a resident of Coralville before announcing his state senate run in 2018.
Northwest Iowa Tour Stop
Wahls made his stop in Orange City as part of a swing through northwest Iowa, which included a stop in Sioux City on Monday, and both Orange City and Storm Lake on Tuesday, before making his way back to Des Moines for another event next week.
Wahls is one of two Democrats seeking the party’s nomination for the U.S. Senate seat, along with Josh Turek, with the primary set for June 2nd.
The event was held at Kweken Co. in downtown Orange City.
