Jess Piper, a former teacher residing on a farm in Missouri, is an active Democrat who dedicates her time to mobilizing voters in rural areas. In her recent blog post, she delves into her experiences in Iowa.
Piper highlights the surprising results of the latest poll in Iowa, a traditionally conservative state. The renowned Selzer poll revealed that Harris has taken the lead in a state that Trump had previously won twice.
According to Piper, the primary concern in Iowa is abortion. The fight against the abortion ban is spearheaded by mothers and grandmothers who are advocating for the health care rights of their daughters and granddaughters.
It is worth noting that Jess Piper will be a speaker at the Network for Public Education Annual Conference in Columbus, Ohio, on April 5-6, 2025.
In her own words:
“A common misconception among pollsters is that abortion won’t sway older women to vote for a Democrat. However, through my interactions with numerous individuals in locations like Iowa, I have come to realize that this assumption is unfounded. I have engaged in meaningful conversations with countless women.”
“While some may view abortion as merely a political tactic, for women and girls, it is a matter of life and death.”
Reflecting on her past engagements, Piper recalls a speaking event in Mt Ayr, Iowa, where the majority of attendees were teachers. Despite the initial focus on public schools, the discussion shifted towards the impacts of abortion bans, particularly concerning the reproductive health of their daughters.
She emphasizes the deep-rooted nature of this concern, dating back to the inception of the United States.
In a historical context, Piper cites Abigail Adams’ plea to her husband John Adams in 1776, urging for fair treatment and representation of women.
“We have been advocating for equal rights under the law for centuries.”
Piper shares her experiences of engaging with communities in various Iowa cities like Council Bluffs, Iowa City, Sioux City, and Mount Pleasant. She attests to the growing momentum and support for reproductive rights and women’s issues across rural regions.
While acknowledging the significance of polls, Piper stresses that ultimately, voters will determine the outcome of the election. She remains optimistic about the shifting dynamics in Iowa and the potential for Harris to secure victory, driven by the changing sentiments among rural women voters.
She underscores the backlash faced by the Republican party due to their stance on abortion, which has alienated even Independent and Republican voters who value limited government and individual freedom.
Piper concludes by instilling hope and encouraging readers to believe in the possibility of Iowa supporting Harris, signaling a broader shift in political landscapes.