DES MOINES, Iowa – Reeder for Congress said WHO-TV 13 Political Director Dave Price sent an email last Friday informing them that Steven Reeder could not participate in their May 26 debate between Iowa 4th Congressional District Republican candidates.
They said the reason Price gave was that Reeder did not meet the fundraising threshold. According to the Federal Election Commission (FEC), Reeder has raised $57,751.44 as of the end of the first quarter in 2020.
Reeder for Congress sent a press release objecting to their candidate’s exclusion.
Reeder’s campaign notes that Reeder announced his candidacy on Setempber 26, 2019, and filed all appropriate disclosures, legal documents, met all deadlines with the FEC, and acquired the number of petition signatures required to qualify for the June 2 primary ballot.
They note that his petitions signatures were the only one among Iowa 4th Congressional Republican candidates not challenged.
Reeder for Congress noted that their candidate attended every debate and forum held for candidates in the district. They also said they scaled back their fundraising out of respect for those financially impacted by the COVID-19 crisis. They state he has completed numerous interviews and news appearances.
They claim Reeder launched a grassroots campaign to reach voters on Iowa’s main streets and in rural communities to champion limited government, faith, and freedom. They state the campaign was never about money, but about the character of the person who represents Iowa’s 4th Congressional District.
“We’re living in a time when a huge number of Americans are struggling to keep their businesses afloat and take care of their families, and we’re judging candidates by how much money they’ve raised?” the campaign asked.
They claimed the Reeder’s exclusion is an example of certain media outlets and special interest groups working to nullify voters’ ability to make an informed choice on election day.
“Special interest groups, lobbyists, and their barrels of cash are a problem in politics, and Steven is not taking their money,” the press release said.
“I am, and always will be, beholden to the U.S. Constitution and the people of Iowa’s Fourth District – not lobbyists, not special interests, and not establishment career politicians,” Reeder stated.
The campaign argues for voters to make an informed decision; they need to hear from all candidates. Otherwise, the campaign states that the May 28 debate is a waste of time for all involved and who watch.
Correction: The original article said the debate was on May 28. It was on May 26. We apologize for the error.
