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Iowa Candidate Bushaw Builds Momentum with Grassroots Campaign

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  Published in Politics and Government on Monday, February 16th 2026 at 22:34 GMT by The Gazette
      Locales: Iowa, UNITED STATES

WATERLOO, Iowa - February 17, 2026 - Dave Bushaw, the independent candidate vying for Iowa's 2nd Congressional District seat, continues to build momentum with a grassroots campaign centered on economic revitalization, educational innovation, and a firm stance against corporate influence in Washington. A recent town hall in Waterloo saw Bushaw connect with approximately 30 voters, outlining his vision for a district encompassing Black Hawk, Bremer, Buchanan, Chickasaw, Floyd, Franklin, Grundy, Hancock, Iowa, and Winneshiek counties.

Bushaw's candidacy presents a distinct alternative to the typical two-party dynamic, positioning him as a voice for the everyday Iowan. He consistently emphasizes his background as a small business owner - a deliberate contrast to career politicians he claims are disconnected from the needs of the district. "I'm not a politician, I'm a builder," Bushaw stated at the Waterloo event, a sentiment he's echoed throughout his campaign. "I understand the struggles of creating jobs, meeting payroll, and navigating bureaucratic hurdles. That's the perspective I'll bring to Congress."

Economic Opportunity Beyond the Traditional Model

Central to Bushaw's platform is a commitment to bolstering economic opportunity, but with a nuanced approach. He isn't solely focused on attracting large corporations - a strategy often pursued by both major parties. Instead, Bushaw champions the growth of small businesses and the skilled trades. He believes these sectors are the bedrock of a resilient local economy and offer viable career paths for residents of the 2nd District.

"For too long, we've prioritized incentivizing massive corporations, hoping for trickle-down economics," Bushaw explained. "That hasn't worked. We need to invest directly in our local entrepreneurs and ensure we have a skilled workforce to fill the jobs of today and tomorrow." He proposes streamlining regulations for small businesses, expanding access to microloans, and fostering apprenticeship programs to address the growing skills gap in areas like welding, plumbing, electrical work, and advanced manufacturing.

This emphasis on the skilled trades represents a departure from the traditional emphasis on four-year college degrees as the sole pathway to success. Bushaw acknowledges the value of higher education but argues that it's not the right fit for everyone. His plan calls for increased funding for vocational training programs in high schools and community colleges, as well as partnerships between educational institutions and local businesses to ensure curriculum aligns with industry needs.

Education Reform: Preparing a Future-Ready Workforce

Bushaw's vision for education reform isn't simply about workforce development; it's about fostering critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and lifelong learning. He advocates for smaller class sizes, increased teacher support, and a curriculum that emphasizes practical application of knowledge. He also proposes exploring alternative education models, such as online learning platforms and personalized learning plans, to cater to diverse learning styles.

Furthermore, addressing the rising cost of education is a key component of his plan. He suggests exploring options like tuition freezes at state universities and expanding access to Pell Grants and other financial aid programs.

Taking on Corporate Influence: A Promise of Accountability

Perhaps the most defining aspect of Bushaw's campaign is his unwavering commitment to reducing the influence of corporate money in politics. He frequently points to the disproportionate power wielded by lobbyists and special interest groups, arguing that they often prioritize profits over the needs of ordinary citizens.

"The system is rigged," Bushaw asserts. "Corporations are spending millions of dollars to influence elections and shape policy decisions. That's not a democracy; that's an oligarchy." He pledges to support campaign finance reform, including measures to limit corporate contributions and increase transparency in political spending. He also advocates for stricter ethics rules for elected officials and a ban on lobbying by former members of Congress.

Bushaw believes that dismantling this system of influence is essential for restoring trust in government and ensuring that policy decisions are made in the best interests of the people. He frames his campaign as a fight for a more equitable and accountable political system, where the voices of ordinary Iowans are heard above the din of special interests.

As the election draws nearer, Bushaw faces an uphill battle against established candidates from the major parties. However, his message of economic opportunity, educational innovation, and anti-corporate sentiment appears to be resonating with a growing number of voters who are disillusioned with the status quo. Whether he can translate that support into a victory remains to be seen, but his campaign is undoubtedly injecting a fresh and independent voice into the political landscape of Iowa's 2nd Congressional District.