Des Moines — As Iowa heads toward the November 3 ballot, the Republican Party of Iowa is intensifying its push for Amendment One, a proposed constitutional amendment that would make it significantly harder for the state legislature to raise individual or corporate income tax rates. The amendment would require a two‑thirds supermajority in both the Iowa House and Senate before any tax increase could be enacted.

Why Republicans Support the Measure

Supporters say the amendment is a safeguard for Iowa taxpayers, ensuring that any future tax hike must enjoy broad, bipartisan consensus. “It’s very important to share this news about Iowa and Amendment One, and really what Josh Turek’s record is of. He doesn’t want to support Iowa taxpayers. He seems to be in favor of more government control and higher taxes,” said one Republican supporter quoted by KCCI.

Democratic Candidate Josh Turek’s Tax Stance Under Scrutiny

Josh Turek, the Democratic congressional candidate, responded with a statement defending his record on tax relief. “Josh Turek has repeatedly worked with Republicans to cut taxes for Iowans, lowering income and property taxes,” his campaign said. The statement also attacked Republican U.S. Rep. Ashley Hinson, accusing her of voting to cut health care for 110,000 Iowans while providing tax breaks to wealthy donors.

While Turek’s campaign emphasizes bipartisan tax cuts, Republicans argue that his broader platform includes policies that could increase the tax burden on families. They point to his support for expanded government programs and higher spending as evidence that he would not protect Iowans from future tax hikes.

Democratic Party’s Opposition to the Amendment

The Iowa Democratic Party, aligning with a statement from Common Good Iowa, called Amendment One a threat to the state’s future. “Amendment 1 is incompatible with the Iowa values of fairness and accountability we all prize,” the statement read. “If enacted, Amendment One would give a small minority of legislators the power to obstruct essential bipartisan tax reform.”

Election Timeline

Election day is set for Tuesday, Nov. 3, and absentee ballots will begin to be mailed next month. Both parties are urging voters to consider the long‑term fiscal impact of the amendment as they head to the polls.

What Voters Need to Know

• Amendment One would require a two‑thirds supermajority in both chambers to raise income taxes.
• Supporters argue it protects taxpayers from unilateral tax increases.
• Opponents claim it could stall necessary bipartisan tax reform.
• The measure will appear on the Nov. 3 ballot alongside other state and local races.

As the campaign heats up, Iowa voters will have to weigh the promise of fiscal restraint against concerns that the amendment could limit the legislature’s flexibility to address future budget needs.

Original reporting: KCCI Des Moines — read the source article.