Misty Rebik

People-power has its biggest impact in its local communities. That's why I'm asking you to support V Fixmer-Oraiz for the newly redistricted county board seat in Johnson County, Iowa.

V and I go way back. We met in planning school at The University of Iowa in 2013 and became instant friends. V was a big supporter of the worker center. V's wife, Natalie, became a great friend and supporter of many causes I championed, including work we did to get the first-ever Transcare Program off the ground in the Cedar Rapids Planned Parenthood. V and Natalie have stood up for workers of all backgrounds, communities targeted by the right-wing, and have been invaluable community members in Johnson County.

V was first elected to the Johnson County Board of Supervisors in 2022. Now due to districting forced by the state, V is in a hotly contested primary with long-time Supervisor Rod Sullivan. I know Rod, too. Rod was a Board member back when I ran the worker center. He was an ally to our work, no doubt.

But here's why I'm supporting V.

V has been an organizer all their life. V has consistently stood up for others and with others, when no one was looking or paying attention. V is a person of deep integrity, a hard-worker, and tough as nails. They know how to get things done as an elected official, while also working tirelessly to uphold progressive values. More than anything, V isn't part of the "establishment." V, like me, is an outsider. They do the politics that represent the people - not a specific party or agenda. Right now, as Iowa is in the precipice of big electoral change, Johnson County can lead the State in fighting back against Trumpism and fight for something better - an Iowa that is welcoming to all, has opportunities for all, and won't take NO for an answer. V will do that, I have no doubt.

V is a proven leader who cares about all of us. Just this month as the country was in awe watching how Minnesotans stood up effectively to Trump's domestic army that we call ICE, V introduced and passed a resolution that demanded congress immediately defund ICE and completely restructure the Department of Homeland Security. They did this in solidarity with local electeds across the country–and, proudly, Johnson County was second in the nation to pass this resolution. They created the Johnson County Trans Advisory Committee to strengthen human rights protections on a local level; they have worked closely with manufactured housing residents to improve living conditions; they have initiated creative funding pathways to ensure residents have access to lifesaving health care and services. They are also a certified urban and regional planner who has won statewide awards for their visionary work. And so much more.

I may have moved from Iowa a few years ago, but my heart is still there, along with most of my friends and my family. I called Johnson County home for 15 years. This race is important to the future of the State and so many of my dear friends who live there.

I'm asking you to donate to V today if you can - even $10 will go a long way in a local race - and if you're in the area, please consider volunteering, placing a yard sign, and voting for V.