Trump's Iowa Visit Reinforces 'America First' Message

Former President's policies boosted Iowa's economy, says local GOP leader

Published on Feb. 13, 2026

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In a guest column, Denise Bubeck, president of the Iowa Federation of Republican Women, praises former President Donald Trump's 'America First' agenda and its positive impact on Iowa's farmers, manufacturers, and rail industry. Bubeck argues that Trump's policies, including support for a proposed railroad merger, have strengthened the state's economy by prioritizing American workers and industries.

Why it matters

This op-ed provides insight into how Trump's economic policies resonated with key constituencies in Iowa, a crucial swing state. It highlights the former president's enduring popularity among Republicans in the state and the importance of issues like trade, regulation, and infrastructure investment to Iowa's economy.

The details

Bubeck, a longtime Iowa Republican, says Trump's 'America First' agenda aligned with the core values of Iowans who 'grow our food, build our products, and keep this country running.' She credits his policies for standing up for fair trade, reducing regulatory burdens on manufacturers, and renewing belief in American industry. Bubeck also praises Trump's support for a proposed merger between Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern railroads, arguing it would boost efficiency and connectivity for Iowa's producers.

  • Trump visited Iowa on an unspecified date in 2026.

The players

Donald Trump

Former President of the United States who promoted an 'America First' economic agenda.

Denise Bubeck

President of the Iowa Federation of Republican Women and author of the guest column.

Union Pacific

A major U.S. railroad company that is proposing to merge with Norfolk Southern.

Norfolk Southern

A major U.S. railroad company that is proposing to merge with Union Pacific.

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What they’re saying

“President Trump understands that revitalizing American manufacturing and agriculture requires bold, strategic thinking. Which is why he himself has noted the merger 'sounds good.' A unified rail will reduce supply-chain bottlenecks, lower transportation costs, and better connect producers in the Midwest to markets nationwide.”

— Denise Bubeck, President, Iowa Federation of Republican Women (thegazette.com)

What’s next

The proposed merger between Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern will require regulatory approval, which could be a focus of future news coverage.

The takeaway

This op-ed highlights the enduring appeal of Trump's 'America First' economic message in Iowa, a key swing state, and the importance of issues like trade, regulation, and infrastructure investment to the state's agricultural and manufacturing sectors.