Friday, July 17, 2009

Whitaker Resigns, Hanson Runs

Whitaker Resigns, Hanson Runs

It's now official: State Rep. John Whitaker has resigned for a presidential appointment as Iowa Director of the Farm Service Agency. And Democrats already have their candidate for the Jefferson-Van Buren based District 90:
Community activist and educator Curt Hanson today announced his bid to replace State Representative John Whitaker of Van Buren County, who announced his resignation from the Iowa House earlier today to become Iowa Director of the Farm Service Agency. Hanson is a life-long Iowan who has been living and teaching in Fairfield for over 43 years.

“My parents taught me the importance of hard work, helping neighbors, and service to community. Those Iowa values will guide my work as the next State Representative for District 90,” said Hanson, a Democrat.

Hanson was born and raised on an Iowa family farm. He attended the University of Northern Iowa and received his masters from the University of Iowa. He and his wife, Diane, have two grown children. They are members of First United Methodist Church and Curt is also a member of the Fairfield Kiwanis Club.

“My priorities are simple: balance the state budget, create good-paying jobs in key industries like renewable energy, make health care more affordable for middle class families, and ensure our kids have the education and skills they need to get a job in these tough economic times,” said Hanson.

Hanson is a retired teacher and driver education instructor in Fairfield. He has been selected by his community as Fairfield Teacher of the Year and has been selected by his peers to serve those in the teaching profession at both the local and state levels. He was also runner-up National Driver Education Teacher of the Year and has served as President and Business Manager of the Iowa Association of Safety Education.

Clearly this was ready: the web site's already up. Anyone up for a road trip to doorknock Fairfield? We need an election date first (that's up to Chet) and the formality of a nominating convention.

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