(Independence, IA) An Independence Citizen of the Year and Heartland Acres Executive Director, Craig Johnson, announced his run for the Iowa Senate on Wednesday afternoon.
“I am seeking election to serve the citizens of Iowa Senate District 32,” said Johnson, a Republican. “I am running because I believe we can do better in the management of government rather than government running us. Effective and efficient government allows for freedom of people to be the best they can be with as little government interference as possible.”
Born and raised in Independence, Johnson brings a diverse background, which includes working in the construction, manufacturing, financial securities and insurance industries, to the race. Serving as executive director at Heartland Acres, he manages the budget for a multi-million dollar campus.
“Iowans deserve the best representation in government, and I am offering my extensive background as a means to serve in our Iowa Senate,” Johnson said.
“In the Iowa Senate, Craig will fight to preserve and promote our rural communities and main street businesses,” Governor Terry Branstad said. “Craig will use his experiences in manufacturing, construction and agriculture to ensure our students, and workforce, have the skills needed to compete in a global economy.”
Johnson said he will work to reduce burdens on small business to help them succeed, as well as grow career opportunities by investing in a skilled and competitive workforce.
“Our state is incredibly rich with opportunity and I will work hard for Iowans to give them every chance to succeed,” Johnson said. “We also must protect Iowa families and their budgets by ensuring fiscal responsibility and not spending more than the state takes in on an annual basis.”
Johnson and his wife Susan have one daughter. He currently sits on the Vision Iowa Board and is a member of the Iowa Soybean and Iowa Corn Growers Association.
“Craig has a passion for serving Iowans,” Lt. Gov. Kim Reynolds said. “From coaching his daughter’s soccer team, to his involvement in the Independence Athletic Booster Club and Vision Iowa Board, Craig always works for a bright future for Iowa.”
Senate Republican Leader Bill Dix, R-Shell Rock, said Johnson’s experience can be utilized in the Iowa Statehouse.
“Craig understands finance and managing budgets, and these are important strengths we will rely upon when he is elected to the Iowa Senate,” Senator Dix said.
