2 weeks Ago
During his town meeting in Sioux Center on Aug. 20, Sen. Chuck Grassley was asked about the Iowa Utilities Commission's approval of the use of eminent domain to take private property for the Summit carbon capture pipeline.
Eminent domain is supposed to be for the public good, not for private companies to use for private gain. Instead of expressing support for landowners, Grassley avoided giving an answer, saying it's a state issue. Well, what is happening in our state? According to watchdog groups, at least four members of Summit's leadership have direct links to Gov.
Reynold's office or the Iowa Utilities Commission. Bruce Rastetter, head of Summit's parent company, is Reynold's top individual donor, contributing nearly $150,000 between 2018 and 2022. Moreover, Summit's senior policy advisor is former Gov.
Terry Branstad, who appointed the utility board's chair and three other commissioners. Rastetter has also donated tens of thousands of dollars to Rep. Randy Feenstra, who initially supported carbon capture pipelines and now -- like Grassley --claims it is a matter for the states and has gone silent on the issue.
Ryan Melton is running for Feenstra's seat in the U.S. House.
Melton points out that federal tax credits are driving pipeline companies to cross Iowa and our neighboring states, so it's not just a state issue. When it comes time to cast your ballot this November, remember these facts and vote accordingly. Ryan Melton accepts no corporate PAC money and publicly opposes carbon capture pipelines.
-- Anita Cirulis, Orange City, Iowa.
