Congresswoman Cindy Axne held a “Connect with your Congresswoman” event at Simpson College Thursday morning, part of a 16 county tour. Axne talked with students and residents about a range of topics including affordable health care, better jobs and good wages, as well as restoring ethics in congress. Congresswoman Axne said during the meeting when a question was asked if she would commit to supporting a transition to 100% renewable energy.

“Yeah, we need to transition away from fossil fuels absolutely. As a matter of fact, one of the issues that I’ve recently risen to the office of the Inspector General, was to look at the EPA’s waivers out of the renewable fuel standards. We produce ethanol here, and those fossil fuel companies like Chevron and Exxon, who are multi-billion dollar companies, who are profiting greatly, have been waived out of having to purchase ethanol to blend into their fuel. That is only putting money into the pockets of rich wealthy shareholders in the fossil fuel industry, and taking money out of the pockets of hard working people right here in Iowa. So yeah, I absolutely want to see us move away from fossil fuels. We don’t need to be there, we have ample opportunity to create energy and fuel in this country and that is what we should be doing.”

Axne also said she is visiting every county in her district each month, so that residents can get their voice to Washington. Approximately 20 people attended the event.