Osceola’s Fry set to run for Iowa House
By JAKE WADDINGHAM, CNA staff reporter, jwaddingham@crestonnews.com
OSCEOLA — Joel Fry, a fifth generation resident of Clarke County, is making the first steps in a long run on the Republican ticket for a spot in the Iowa House in District 95, currently held by Mike Reasoner (D) of Creston.
Born and raised in rural Osceola, Fry is a graduate of Simpson College and has experience as a social worker, working for Hospice of Central Iowa and Weatherbee Resources. He and his wife Heather live on the family farm with their three children, Tanner, Mason and Reagan.
Heather home schools the three children and also has a dance studio, To the Beat Dance Studio.
“I am running for Iowa House because our rural communities deserve an outspoken leader who will advocate for new growth and job creation,” said Fry. “Iowa is on the verge of great things, and I will ensure we are poised to take advantage of business development opportunities.”
This will be Fry’s first attempt running for a political office, even though he has been interested in politics most of his adult life. He has spent time as a lobbyist for health care and is a small-business owner, operating Team Restoration Ministries.
“I really want to try to help small business owners and farmers get more tax breaks,” said Fry. “As a small-business owner myself, I have a strong passion to see small business be successful. They are the backbone of Iowa communities.”
Fry also hopes to give people the right to vote on marriage rights in the state of Iowa, increase property protection for landowners and help improve health care to make it more affordable, but maintain a high quality.
“My platform is pretty standard for most Republicans,” said Fry.
Although work is already starting on the campaign trail, Fry said the effort will increase after the first of the year.
He hopes to make more public appearances and send out letters to supporters. Born and raised in Osceola, Fry hopes to increase recognition in Union and Decatur counties.
