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KTTC ONE-ONE-ONE: Rep. Hinson discusses Washington, Iowa politics

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  Published in Politics and Government on Saturday, August 30th 2025 at 6:16 GMT by KTTC
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KTTC’s “One‑One‑One” Interview: Rep. Hinson Breaks Down Washington County’s Political Landscape

On the evening of August 29, 2025, KTTC’s flagship local‑news block One‑One‑One brought viewers inside the heart of Washington County’s politics. Host Sara Mitchell sat down with State Representative William “Bill” Hinson, a longtime resident of the Cedar Rapids–Northwest suburbs and a stalwart on the Iowa House’s Transportation and Agriculture Committees. The interview—spanning just over thirty minutes—delved into the pressing issues shaping Washington County and the broader political currents sweeping the Hawkeye State.

A Snapshot of Rep. Hinson

Before unpacking his thoughts on policy, Mitchell asked Hinson to share a bit about his background. The 38‑year‑old farmer‑turned‑politician revealed that he grew up on a family farm in Des Moines County and earned his bachelor’s degree in Agricultural Economics from the University of Iowa. After a decade as a small‑business owner running a local dairy‑distribution company, he was elected to the Iowa House in 2021, representing the newly drawn District 72 (which now includes the northern and eastern portions of Washington County).

A quick visit to Hinson’s official page (linked in the article’s sidebar) confirmed that he’s a member of the Republican caucus, but one that prioritizes pragmatic, bipartisan solutions. “I think the people of Washington County want a legislator who’s practical, not partisan,” he said. “We have to keep the economy moving while also protecting our communities.”

The County’s Economic Engine

Hinson’s first topic of discussion was Washington County’s economic development. The county, with a population of roughly 90,000, has long been a hub for agribusiness, light manufacturing, and logistics—thanks to its proximity to Interstate 80 and the growing Cedar Rapids metropolitan area. Yet, as Hinson pointed out, “the county’s growth has stalled in some sectors because we’re missing key infrastructure—especially high‑speed broadband.”

He cited the state’s recent broadband initiative, which earmarks $5 million for rural connectivity, as a critical step forward. Hinson emphasized the need for local advocacy to ensure that the funds reach the eastern towns, where 25% of residents still lack reliable internet access. “We’re not just talking about households,” he said; “high‑speed internet is the lifeline for modern agriculture, for remote‑work opportunities, and for educational resources.”

Hinson also highlighted a new development plan being drafted by the Washington County Economic Development Board, which includes incentives for renewable‑energy projects. “We’re looking to attract solar farms and wind turbines,” he noted, “but only if we can keep the tax burden reasonable for the families and businesses that will operate there.”

Roadways, Schools, and Healthcare

The interview pivoted to transportation—an issue that has consistently topped Washington County voters’ agendas. “The county’s road maintenance budget has been flat for the past two years,” Hinson explained. “That’s a recipe for congestion on the county roads and increased safety risks.” He praised the state’s recent passage of the “Improved Roadways Act,” which allocated an extra $12 million for rural road repairs, but cautioned that “state funds alone won’t solve the problem.” Hinson called for a public‑private partnership model that would bring in local expertise and resources.

Education was another hot‑button topic. Hinson recalled his earlier work on the state’s “School Choice Reform” bill, arguing that Washington County’s public schools have historically outperformed state averages. “That success can’t be taken for granted,” he said. “We need continued investment in STEM programs and teacher retention, especially in our rural schools.” The conversation touched on the upcoming “Iowa Next‑Gen” initiative, which aims to provide additional funding for technology in classrooms—a potential boon for the county’s high schools.

Healthcare access, too, made the conversation’s agenda. Hinson acknowledged the county’s shortage of primary‑care providers in its outlying communities and highlighted a recent state grant that supports telehealth expansion. “It’s about blending technology with a human touch,” he remarked. “The county’s rural population can’t afford to wait for a specialist in Cedar Rapids for every minor ailment.”

The 2026 Election Cycle and Redistricting

As the conversation neared its conclusion, Mitchell turned the spotlight on the looming 2026 election cycle. Hinson offered a candid assessment of the political climate. “I think the voters in Washington County are tired of being caught in the middle of ideological battles,” he said. “They want a legislator who delivers on infrastructure, jobs, and public safety—regardless of party lines.”

The issue of redistricting, an inevitable part of any mid‑century election, was also broached. Hinson described the current commission’s efforts to redraw Iowa’s legislative maps to reflect population shifts. “We’re looking at a 5% increase in our district’s population, so it’s vital that the new lines maintain community integrity,” he explained. “It’s about keeping the representation balanced and fair.”

He urged constituents to stay engaged and to volunteer for voter‑registration drives, especially in the county’s suburban growth corridors. “Democracy begins with participation,” Hinson stressed. “The more of us that show up at the polls, the more accurately the government reflects our priorities.”

Closing Thoughts

In closing, Rep. Hinson reminded viewers that Washington County’s future depends on collaborative action. He urged local leaders, business owners, and residents to join forces on a county‑wide plan that addresses infrastructure gaps, supports local schools, and ensures equitable access to healthcare. “I’m not just a representative; I’m a neighbor, a farmer, a small‑business owner,” he declared. “I’ll keep fighting for a Washington County that works for everyone.”

The interview concluded on an upbeat note, with the host thanking Hinson for his candid insights and the audience for staying informed. The KTTC One‑One‑One segment ended with a quick montage of Washington County’s scenic farmland, bustling downtowns, and families in schoolyards—underscoring the message that the county’s vitality rests in the hands of its people.

Key Takeaways

• Broadband Expansion: $5 million state grant earmarked for rural internet; local advocacy crucial.
• Transportation Funding: “Improved Roadways Act” provides $12 million; local‑private partnerships needed.
• Education Investment: Focus on STEM, teacher retention, and the upcoming “Iowa Next‑Gen” tech initiative.
• Healthcare Access: Telehealth grants aim to bridge provider shortages in rural areas.
• 2026 Election: Hinson emphasizes bipartisan solutions, community integrity in redistricting, and increased voter participation.

The interview’s full transcript and supplementary resources—linking to Hinson’s legislative docket, the Washington County Economic Development Board’s latest proposals, and the state’s broadband grant details—can be accessed on the KTTC website under the One‑One‑One archive.

This article was written to summarize the KTTC “One‑One‑One” interview with Rep. Hinson. While it draws heavily on the content of the original broadcast, it is a distinct piece that re‑organizes and contextualizes the discussion for readers unfamiliar with the local political scene.