The race for Iowa’s newly reorganized Third Congressional district is heating up.

Congressman Tom Latham (R-IA)

Republican Congressman Tom Latham says he thinks he knows what’s best for Iowans, and he characterized his Democrat opponent Leonard Boswell as being of the mindset “Washington knows best,” as proven by his voting record. Latham says he’s running campaign ads six-months prior to the election because he wants to get the word out that the election is about “the future of this Country, and the potential loss of the American Dream.” 

He says Boswell supported the Wall Street bank bailout and the economic stimulus package, Cap and Trade – which he says will increase utility rates in Iowa by 20- to 25-percent – while he – Latham – voted against those issues. Boswell told KJAN Wednesday, that Latham has deep pockets when it comes to bankrolling his campaign, thanks in-part to his relationship to House Speaker John Boehner and other Washington power brokers. Latham says his support comes primarily from Iowans. Latham says Boswell is probably using the fundraising issue as “an excuse on his part, because he hasn’t been able to generate the level of support…” that Latham has. Latham says he and Boswell have a clear philosophical difference, and that’s something Iowans need to consider before the next election in November.