MASON CITY – This morning at a public forum at the Mason City library, Democratic State Senator Sharon Steckman announced she will not seek re-election to the Iowa Legislature.
Upon her announcement, NIT reached out to Rep. Steckman for comment. Here is her response:
Yes…I announced at my forum….to folks that have been there for me all along.
This is what I said….
“A ship is safe in the harbor…but that is no place for a ship” this is a quote I have looked to when I am making a life changing decision….like when I went to Portugal to teach. I didn’t know the country, language, or the school, but I learned so much! I used those same thoughts when I decided to run for office….I could have stayed safe at home, but I’m so glad I chose to run!
Seventeen years ago, at 60 I retired from teaching and began my career as your State Representative. It has been an incredible 17 years, from the time I knocked on the first door to having opportunities I never would have had…all thanks to the wonderful people that elected me and put their faith in me.
Recently, I have watched new, young Democratic caucus members in the House fight with passion, enthusiasm, intelligence and energy toward making Iowa an inviting place to live and raise their families.
It is time for me to step aside and allow someone in North Iowa to step up; someone without a hidden agenda – just a desire to move this great state forward for ALL Iowans.
This was definitely not an easy decision. I will so miss the dedicated people I work with and all the friendships I have made during the course of my 17 years. However, at this point in my life, it is time to devote more of my energy to family. They have sacrificed so much for me these past 17 years and I am incredibly grateful.
Thank you North Iowa for putting your faith in me. I have truly been blessed.
Sharon
America is a capitalistic country so the notion that the government will work for the people is complete nonsense as you can see by the state of affairs in our great nation today. The Government, lobbied by corporations and special interest groups, work for corporations. The American people need to clearly understand that both parties, like it or not, serve Wall Street. The Democrats work on Wall Street’s Foreign Policy and The Republicans work on Wall Street’s Domestic Policy. If you understand this, than you will have a good relationship and harmony with America. Unfortunately, many of our own politicians here in this great nation do not understand this simple fact. – Faruk Jessa 2024
You couldn’t carry Sharon Steckman’s lunch, and don’t assume the sh*tshow that is the Cerro Gordo Republimoron Party will come anywhere close to flipping this seat.
Maybe you can get one of your school board candidates to run for her spot. They did so well in that election and they seem to be the only ones who will run in the community. Or, here is a better idea Larry, you run. You might get to double digits in votes.
Thank you for your service as a legislator and a teacher. You have been the shining light for North Iowa the past seventeen years.