The Iowa Legislature has wound up yet another contentious session which saw more than a few Democrats and Republicans lobbing grenades at each other – and not always to the public’s benefit.

In fact, there were times when the public appeared to be the main casualty in this kind of political warfare.

I believe that neither party is blind or narrow-minded or mean-spirited.

What we need are more legislators who are willing to (dare I say it?) support the other party whenever it has an idea that will benefit the people of Iowa.

Karen Bolluyt would make that kind of state senator.

Make no mistake: Karen is a Democrat and she has thoughtful views on almost every issue of importance.

But she also possesses an uncanny knack for listening, for distilling the best parts of every argument and then coming up with a proposal that not only makes sense, but is good for everyone.

If this is your idea of a good lawmaker, then please join me in voting for Karen Bolluyt in the June 4 primary elections.

Tom Emmerson

Professor

Journalism and mass communication