House Republicans this week passed out of subcommittee legislation that would outlaw ‘no fault divorce’ in Iowa.  What was the reason behind this effort?  In the words of Rep. Tedd Gassman, in describing the effects on young women:

“What are the possibilities of her being more promiscuous? What are the possibilities of all these other things surrounding her life that a 16-year-old girl, with hormones raging, can get herself into?”

This demeaning, callous, and sexist statement demonstrates once again just how out of touch the Republican Party is in this state.  While Democrats are fighting to expand health care, provide funding for our schools, and grow the middle class, Iowa Republicans are more interested in pushing their extreme social agenda. 

Iowa Democrats can, and must, stand up to this rhetoric.  We cannot allow the Republicans to get away with legislation that demeans women in this state.

Will you help us fight back against Rep. Gassman’s outrageous statements by making a financial contribution to the Iowa Democratic Party? Your contribution of $15, $25, $50, or whatever you can afford will help us continue to hold him and the Republican Party accountable and show Iowans where their priorities truly lie.

Sincerely,

Rep. Tyler Olson

Chair, Democratic Party