The Marion County Republican Central Committee hosted a forum where Republican candidates running for office in House Districts 28 and 79 shared their backgrounds, motivations for running for office, and thoughts on a number of issues. The Republicans running for office are: Jon Thorup and Jon Van Wyk in House District 28 and Dustin Hite in House District 79.

The candidates were asked their perspectives on recent collective bargaining laws for state employees. Hite thought the legislation provided more local control, and was supportive. Thorup thought it needed re-examination, and Van Wyk said workers should have the right to choose, and that unions create an unfavorable environment where one has to toe the union line.

With respect to providing law enforcement and fire protection for small communities, Hite and Thorup stressed the necessity of providing these important services despite challenges, and that perhaps more legislative support is needed. Van Wyk agreed that providing funding was necessary, but it is important not to raise taxes.

The candidates were asked what the first bill was they would propose if elected. Van Wyk said it should be easier to use taxpayer money currently directed to public schools in private schools. Thorup would write a bill that would improve death benefits for fire and police officials. Hite stressed the importance of high speed internet access.

All three supported the fetal heartbeat bill passed by the legislature, and all agreed there should be no further restrictions on military style weapons.

Van Wyk suggested that Thorup’s background in law enforcement was too narrow, and stated that Thorup as a single man without children couldn’t relate as well or empathise with the challenges families face. Thorup joked that single people need representation too. He added that he doesn’t live in a vacuum, and can understand and empathize with the challenges families face. He also said his background in enforcement is an asset.

Van Wyk was asked why Senator Amy Sinclair and Representative Greg Heartsill endorsed Thorup. Van Wyk said that he wasn’t surprised that these establishment Republicans endorsed the candidate they recruited. Thorup responded that he doesn’t believe Sinclair or Heartsill are part of the establishment, but if they are, to sign him up.

The candidates were asked if Iowans should be able to carry firearms anywhere they want. Hite says he believes in the second amendment, but as an attorney he is in places where there are heated emotions, such as courtrooms and city hall. He says guns in these situations and in the schools are potentially a problem.

Van Wyk believes in permitless carry, and background checks. He said “bad guys” are going to go anywhere they want, and if they are intent on doing evil, they will do it. He believes everyone should have the tools to defend themselves in any location.

Thorup stressed that proficiency with weapons is an issue. He believes that training is necessary, and that if establishments, say churches, don’t want weapons on the premises, their wishes should be respected.

The candidates were asked what their solutions were to stopping gun violence. Thorup and Hite said mental health is the key. Van Wyk says that we also need to crack down on drugs and crime.

The candidates addressed several other issues to a crowd of about 25. To learn more about the candidates’ positions on the issues, go to KNIA/KRLS .com and search for their interviews on In Depth, with Dr. Bob Leonard.