DES MOINES, IA – Officials with AFSCME Council 61 members in Iowa, announced their endorsement on Saturday, of  Lanon Baccam for Iowa’s 3rd Congressional District. The announcement came at Principal Park, during an Iowa Cubs baseball game.

Todd Copley, President of AFSCME Council 61, stated, “Lanon Baccam embodies the values that AFSCME Council 61 stands for. His commitment to lowering everyday costs for families, protecting Social Security and Medicare, standing up for reproductive rights, and revitalizing our small towns makes him the ideal candidate for Iowa’s 3rd Congressional District.”

Melissa Speed, Political Director of AFSCME Council 61, added, “Lanon Baccam not only understands the challenges facing Iowans, especially in rural communities, but he’s also a candidate who actually has solutions—unlike Zach Nunn, who seems more interested in playing political games than in tackling the real issues. Lanon’s dedication to creating good-paying jobs, ensuring healthcare access, and fighting for public employees’ rights makes him the leader we are proud to support.”

Lanon Baccam addressed the attendees, emphasizing his commitment to labor rights, public service, and the well-being of Iowa’s working families. He spoke of his work under former Iowa Governor Tom Vilsack at the USDA and his recent efforts to expand high-speed internet access in rural areas—key to creating good-paying jobs and lowering costs for families.

Image from AFSCME Council 61 press release

Baccam outlined key points of his campaign:

• Supporting Public Employees: Baccam advocates for public employees’ rights and fair treatment, supporting broader protections under National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) standards over the restrictive Iowa Code Chapter 20.
• An Economy that Works for Iowans: Baccam stressed the need to lower the cost of living while creating good-paying jobs, particularly in small towns and rural communities.
• Fighting for Small Towns and Rural Communities: He is dedicated to revitalizing these areas, supporting family farms, and ensuring access to healthcare and jobs without extensive travel.
• Standing up for Reproductive Rights: Baccam is a strong advocate for women’s reproductive rights and has pledged to fight against a national abortion ban.
• Protecting Social Security and Medicare: Baccam emphasized the importance of protecting these programs to help seniors manage rising costs.
• Bringing Iowans Together: He called for unity in a time of deep polarization, stressing the need for leaders who will serve their communities and work across divides.

In closing, Todd Copley remarked, “Our union stands united behind Lanon Baccam because he stands for us. We need leaders who will fight for working families and strengthen our communities. Lanon Baccam is that leader, and together, we will build a brighter future for Iowa.”