Trends Point to Authoritarian Rule in Iowa

Gazette reader argues state mandates have increased since 2017, limiting local control

Published on Mar. 1, 2026

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In a letter to the editor, Sonia Ettinger argues that recent state legislation in Iowa, including laws barring local regulation of minimum wages and benefits as well as limiting what can be taught in schools and what books can be carried in libraries, are part of a growing trend towards authoritarian government. Ettinger says these controlling bills are reducing people's ability to have opinions and choose candidates who care about local issues.

Why it matters

The increasing centralization of power at the state level and reduction of local control over issues like wages, education, and environmental regulations raises concerns about the erosion of democracy and the growth of authoritarian tendencies in Iowa's government.

The details

Ettinger cites three major bills passed since 2017 that she says are part of this trend, including a law barring local regulation of minimum wages and benefits, as well as new legislation being considered that would limit the number of waterways that can be counted as "impaired waters", reducing water safety regulations in a state with the second highest rate of cancer. She argues these state-level mandates are discouraging people from engaging in local discussions and choosing representatives who will protect their right to self-governance.

  • The state minimum wage of $7.25 has remained unchanged since 2017.
  • New legislation limiting "impaired waters" regulations is currently being considered.

The players

Sonia Ettinger

An Iowa City resident who wrote a letter to the editor expressing concerns about authoritarian trends in Iowa's state government.

Peter Fisher

A writer whose column "Iowa Republicans cripple democracy" is referenced in Ettinger's letter.

Dorman

A columnist whose work about water pollution regulations is also referenced in Ettinger's letter.

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What they’re saying

“The pre-emption spree continues... in controlling regulation of "school districts being told what they can teach and what books can be carried in their libraries".”

— Sonia Ettinger (thegazette.com)

What’s next

Primaries in June will be an important opportunity for Iowa voters to choose candidates who will protect local control and democratic values.

The takeaway

Ettinger's letter highlights growing concerns that the Iowa state government is becoming increasingly authoritarian by centralizing power and limiting the ability of local communities to make decisions on important issues like wages, education, and the environment.