Boswell to fairgoers: I'm feeling well
By: Jason Clayworth
His health is good, U.S. Rep. Leonard Boswell said, and as proof, he invited state fairgoers today to "come up here and take a hold of me. Boswell, 74, had surgery in July to correct a previous surgery he underwent in 2005, when a noncancerous tumor was removed form his abdomen. He told a crowd at The Des Moines Register's Soapbox today that he had recovered. He used himself as an example to advocate for universal health care.
THE RACE: Boswell, a Des Moines Democrat from Iowa's 3rd Congressional District is being challenged by Republican Kim Schmett of Clive. Boswell, a former state senator, has worked six terms as a Congressman. The central Iowa district includes Des Moines and Oskaloosa.
KEY MESSAGE: Boswell emphasized a need for the United States to embrace a comprehensive energy policy that includes everything from expanded ethanol and bio diesel and wind energy to additional nuclear generation and oil drilling. He said Americans and lawmakers must not lose their focus on alternative energy.
CROWD: About 15 people initially stood nearby or sat on straw bales. Some came and went during the talk while others listened briefly while walking by. The crowd at least doubled in size by the time Boswell ended the speech after about 10 minutes.
ISSUES: Boswell advocated for bringing American troops home from Iraq and make sure that veterans receive the care they deserve.
QUOTE: "We've got a trying situation in our moment of history. We really do. But the upside of it is, we can raise up to it, we can respond to it. We can make it into an opportunity," he said, noting the Iraq war that he said is "bleeding our economy" by $10 billion to $12 billion a month.
“We must ensure a vibrant and sound economy for Iowa through fiscal responsibility and sound public policy.”