Quirmbach and Davis both believe in supporting higher education. Davis said Iowans have great opportunities for higher education, but that he would support initiatives from the Board of Regents that fund public higher education. In addition, Davis believes school districts should have the opportunity to make decisions that affect them locally. Quirmbach is head of the Education Committee in the Senate and supported bills that would provide more funding for the regent universities from the state budget in order to prevent tuition raises for in-state students.  Quirmbach also said that he would fight for a third tuition freeze.

                Encouraging small business owners and main street business owners is an economic priority for Davis. He also would like to encourage industries and business to relocate to the state, which would create jobs for the young professionals in Iowa. Quirmbach’s top economic priority is to create a stable middle class. He would like the Senate to continue to support initiatives that fund small business development centers and expand cultural projects.