I would advocate for a commuter train system for Des Moines, but also to have a link system to the suburbs of Des Moines to downtown Des Moines.  I would also secure federal funding, at least in the beginning, a public transportation system from the rural communities into Des Moines as well.  We already have something like a rural transport system in The Heart of Iowa Rural Transport Authority.  But, I would advocate expanding transportation services into rural Iowa and potentially making a connection between the rail system in the cities and a bus system for the rural communities.
 
Leonard Boswell has been our Congressman for six terms now.  Upon reviewing his record, I do not see anywhere where he has introduced legislation that will help Iowa’s economy grow, but I do see he’s voted to continue funds for “THE BIG DIG” in Boston which has billions of dollars spent just digging a hole in the middle of Boston, and voted for $8 billion to be spent on a high speed rail across the desert for Hollywood types to get a fast ride to Las Vegas, and he has voted for other boondoggles in other states.  Yet he hasn’t sponsored a transportation improvement bill for his district.
 
Having a rail system for Des Moines and surrounding communities would lighten traffic loads, add convenience to the commute, cut down on accidents, particularly on I-235 “MacVicar Freeway”.  It would save money for commuters and of course, if you can save money you can either spend it on improvements or invest it.  It would also cut down on pollution.  Of course, it would increase employment opportunities in central Iowa.
 
This year Leonard Boswell sponsored a bill that will allow 11 million children to be covered by insurance.  I think that’s a great thing.  However, we don’t even have 11 million in Iowa and I don’t believe he’s been representing our district or serving the people of the 3rd District of Iowa.  I believe a transportation bill targeted to increasing our transportation infrastructure would serve the families of Iowa much better than trying to insure people that don’t even live in our state.