With the Iowa midterm election just a day away, voters in Des Moines will decide who will manage the state’s finances as State Treasurer. The race pits incumbent Republican Roby Smith against Democratic challenger John Norwood.
Roby Smith’s record in office
Smith emphasizes the tangible results of his four‑year tenure. He notes that the Treasurer’s office has cut fees by almost 20 percent, a move he says helps Iowans facing affordability challenges. “We reduced fees almost 20% to help in affordability issues,” Smith told KWQC.
He also points to a 60 percent increase in the deduction amount per beneficiary, raising it from $3,800 to $6,100. “We went to the legislature and got the deduction amount increased per beneficiary,” Smith added, framing the change as a direct benefit to families.
On the investment side, Smith claims the office has kept money safe while delivering strong returns. “We have an active approach. We don’t have a passive one. We buy safe investments and make sure we get a great return,” he said, underscoring his belief that the Treasury’s strategy protects taxpayer dollars and supports the state’s economy.
John Norwood’s priorities
Norwood, the Democratic challenger, focuses on fiscal responsibility and keeping taxpayer money within Iowa. He warns that billions of dollars are leaving the state and argues that those funds should stay with Iowa banks and credit unions to fuel local economic development. “We’re sending billions of dollars out of state, where we ought to be keeping that money working here in Iowa,” he said.
Norwood also stresses the importance of the ISAVE 529 college‑saving program, calling for better marketing to reach the roughly half of Iowa’s high‑school students who do not plan to attend college. “We need to do a better job marketing those to a third or a half of Iowa’s high school students that don’t go on to college,” he explained.
Common ground and the road ahead
Both candidates agree that the Treasurer’s office must continue to improve the ISAVE 529 program and keep the state’s financial picture clear for voters. Norwood argues for greater transparency and a stronger focus on keeping money in‑state, while Smith highlights the office’s track record of fee reductions, higher deductions and solid investment performance.
As the polls close, each candidate is urging Iowans to consider who can best safeguard their tax dollars and deliver the financial stewardship the state needs. “We need an engaged, visible treasurer who people know,” Norwood said, emphasizing the need for public awareness of the office’s work. Smith countered, “This is a job that requires someone to do the right work, put up the numbers, keep the money safe and get great returns. And we have done that for four years and I’ve earned another four years. That’s why I am asking people to vote for me.”
What voters should know
The Treasurer’s role includes managing state investments, deposits, public funds and financial programs such as the ISAVE 529 plan. Voters should weigh each candidate’s approach to fee structures, investment strategy, and the handling of out‑of‑state capital. The election will determine whether Iowa continues on Smith’s current path or shifts to Norwood’s proposed emphasis on retaining more money within the state.
Polling data was not provided in the source, so voters are encouraged to review each candidate’s statements and track record before heading to the polls.
Original reporting: KWQC TV6 Davenport (local) — read the source article.
