DES MOINES, Iowa -- Republican Party of Iowa Chairman Jeff Kaufmann released the following statement declaring Mariannette Miller-Meeks the winner of tonight’s second district debate:

“Tonight, Mariannette Miller-Meeks proved to southeast Iowans that she is a tough leader who will stand up and fight for them. As a veteran, doctor, and former public health official, Miller-Meeks has the experience to solve problems and rise above the dysfunction in Washington to get results for Iowans. She is committed to rebuilding our economy safely, expanding access to quality, affordable health care, and protecting those with pre-existing conditions.

“On the other hand, Rita Hart’s shady campaign is being bankrolled by D.C. Swamp lobbyists and backroom dealmakers. Radical environmental groups, who advocate for policies that would decimate Iowa’s agriculture industry, are controlling her anti-Iowa agenda. Having already received Pelosi’s blessing, it’s clear she would just be another puppet for the far-Left. Mariannette Miller-Meeks has never backed down from a fight, and she is the only candidate in this race Iowans can trust to fight for them.”

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