Five Questions for Rob Taylor, Candidate for Iowa House District 44

In just a few weeks, Republican Rob Taylor will challenge West Des Moines Democrat Eric Brenneman for a seat in the Iowa House District 44.

Taylor, 41, is a sales director and consultant for a central Iowa petroleum distributor. He grew up in Des Moines and graduated from Lincoln High School in 1989. He attended Des Moines Area Community College where he graduated with an Associate in Arts, Upper Iowa University with a Bachelors in Science, and William Penn University with a Masters in Business Leadership.

He and his wife, Dr. Christina Taylor, have four children and make their home in West Des Moines.

Here's what Taylor had to say about his run for the Iowa House:

Waukee Patch: Why did you decide to run for the Iowa House?

Rob Taylor: I wanted to bring my 20 + years of private sector business background in managing a variety of businesses to the statehouse. I think it is important that we have common-sense, down-to-earth business principled leaders that know how to manage a budget, meet a payroll, control costs and increase revenues.  I want to help Iowa be #1 again in business & education so that my kids and grandkids also become life-long Iowans.

Waukee Patch: What issues do you hope to resolve in the House should you be elected?

Rob Taylor: Creating more jobs in Iowa.  I will focus on bringing a stable business climate to Iowa by focusing on commercial/residential property tax relief and reform. I will lead the charge on education reform and making sure that we empower our school systems at the local level to make the decisions that are best for our students and parents. Finally, I will always promote and smaller and leaner government and looking a ways to make government more efficient and less costly.

Waukee Patch: What sets you apart from your opponent?

Rob Taylor: Philosophy and experience. First philosophy. My stance has always been that job creation comes from a thriving business community.  Private sector IS the creator of jobs which, in turn, gives us the tax base that government relies upon to exist.  Government cannot sustain itself.  Second experience.  I've spent all of my life in the business community of Iowa, currently managing a successful locally owned business. I've been able through the years to build valuable relationships with business owners, civic and community leaders and residents to promote commerce, growth and consensus on numerous subjects. My wife and I are also life-long central Iowans who are vested in the community and all four of our kids attended both the West Des Moines and Waukee school systems.  I know the GREAT things this new district has to offer and would like the privilege of being your next State Representative and showcasing all the great things we have to offer and the incredible growth that Waukee, West Des Moines and Clive continue to experience under good leadership from other local and state officials.

Waukee Patch: During your community outreach, what issues are your constituents saying they are most concerned about in this election?

Rob Taylor: The biggest concern that I've heard is uncertainty. People are uncertain about the stability of the job climate, our economy, health care costs and eligibility. They are looking for a Representative that has experience and takes action to lead us to economic stability & prosperity again, that takes a stand on issues and fights for the constituents in this district. I believe with my background and experience, I'm the best person for the job and I ask for the people of House Dist. 44's support.

Waukee Patch: What would you like the public to know about you that they may not know already?

Rob Taylor: That I'm an ASE certified technician and enjoy working on antique motorcycles, cars and tractors with my family.