Growing Our Economy & Standing Up for Working Families

Congresswoman Finkenauer wants an economy that works for every Iowan. She understands that we must grow new economic opportunities here at home so that future generations stay in Iowa to build their careers and start a family. We need to support our small businesses and entrepreneurs, develop well-paid and skilled jobs, as well as attract new businesses to Northeast Iowa while closing loopholes that encourage employers to ship jobs overseas.

Congresswoman Finkenauer chose to serve on the House Small Business Committee to better help small businesses in Northeast Iowa grow and access capital, cut through red tape, and hire from a high-skilled workforce. In January 2019, Congresswoman Finkenauer introduced and passed the Stimulating Innovation through Procurement Act, which helps rural small businesses compete for federal contracts—making her the first freshman lawmakers to pass legislation this year.

With small business making up 97 percent of American exporters, an escalating trade war has left many family farmers and workers concerned for their future. Our trade policies should be tough, smart, and—most importantly—fair to Iowa’s workers. As Chair of the Rural Development, Agriculture, Trade, and Entrepreneurship Subcommittee, Congresswoman Finkenauer is fighting for a strong, long-term strategy when it comes to trade—one that gives farmers and manufacturers the certainty they need and ensures a level playing field for hard-working Iowans.

Congresswoman Finkenauer knows that a strong economy starts with taking care of working families. Raised in a union household, she understands that unions are essential to treating workers fairly and keeping the middle class strong. No one should have to choose between their career or their children and that’s why Congresswoman Finkenauer supports paid family leave, livable wages, and affordable child care, which are critical to keeping new parents on the job.