Christie Vilsack

Christie Vilsack (D) is running for Congress in Iowa's 4th District which was reconfigured when the state's 5th District was eliminated through redistricting. Her opponent, Tea Party favorite Steve King (R), is currently the incumbent in the 5th. The new 4th is a more competitive district, affording Vilsack a real chance at taking the seat from one of the most conservative members of Congress. If elected, Vilsack would be the first woman to represent Iowa in Congress.

Background:

• Vilsack is a former teacher and librarian.
• She founded and, until resigning to run for Congress, served as Executive Director of the privately funded Iowa Initiative that is working to reduce the rate of unintended pregnancies among Iowa women through increased access to family planning services.
• As First Lady of Iowa, Vilsack focused on education and literacy issues, creating a statewide literacy initiatve.
• Vilsack's husband Tom was Governor of Iowa from 1999 to 2007 and currently serves as US Secretary of Agriculture.

Vilsack's Positions on Key Issues:

• Vilsack is pro-choice and an active advocate for women's access to family planning.
• Strong supporter of education and literacy.

Other Endorsements: Emily’s List, Women’s Campaign Forum

Website: http://christievilsackforiowa.com/