U.S. Rep. Steve King, R-Iowa, doesn’t represent Iowa values. Actually, he might not even represent basic human values. It’s way beyond time we make a concerted effort to make sure he’s not re-elected. 

Known for his controversial comments, King isn’t who we should want representing us. Most recently, King made fun of Emma Gonzalez, one of the most well-known survivors of the Parkland shooting. It seems he — or his staff members who crafted the post — have no sense of respect. 

This isn’t the first time he’s made controversial comments. He is also well known for racist and anti-immigrant dialogue. He’s even said things like “diversity is not our strength” and “assimilation, not diversity, is our American strength.” These comments are ironic because Iowa’s population would be declining if it wasn’t for international migration. 

As a human being, you should care about people of all kinds and judge them by who they are, not what they look like. As an elected representative, you should care about your state’s economy doing well. His stances and comments on immigration don’t align with either of those. 

In four years, $118,000 of taxpayer money funded trips in Europe and the Middle East essentially to support anti-immigration policies. That’s something fiscal conservatives should be pretty concerned about (if they find nothing else about King to be wary of). 

Supporters of King say he is strong on agriculture issues, but by what measures? While he often sponsors legislation, his ability to get laws passed is highly ineffective. Supporters also say King is strong on anti-abortion efforts. Just like agriculture, he talks about the topic, but talk is about as far as it goes. Even if you supported those issues, King would be the wrong person. 

There are so many people who could do a better job. This is something Iowa Republicans and Democrats should want, so let’s do it.