CEDAR RAPIDS, Iowa – During a debate hosted by KCRG-TV9 and KWQC, access to healthcare and immigration reform emerged as key topics among the three Democratic candidates competing for Iowa’s 2nd Congressional District. State Representative Lindsey James of Dubuque, Clint Twet-Ball, founder of the nonprofit Matthew 25, and Cathy Dolter, a former director of nursing at Kirkwood Community College and an Army veteran, participated in the event aired on Wednesday night. They are all vying to secure the Democratic nomination for the vacancy in the 2nd Congressional District for the upcoming 2026 election. Currently, Representative Ashley Hinson is seeking election to the Iowa Senate.
While analysts predict that Iowa’s 2nd Congressional District may not be as competitive as the 1st or 3rd districts, the Democratic candidates believe there is potential for a strong performance this cycle. The district encompasses cities including Cedar Rapids, Waterloo, Dubuque, and Mason City. They argue it could present an opportunity for Democrats to capitalize on changing voter sentiment.
James, who has held a position in the Iowa House of Representatives since 2019, conveyed confidence in his ability to reclaim the district. He emphasized his track record of winning elections in traditionally Republican areas, suggesting that his experience makes him the most viable candidate for the role.
“I have successfully worked in the Iowa Legislature, fostering bipartisan cooperation for the greater good of all Iowans,” James explained. “Voters are worn out by the ongoing partisanship; they desire a representative with the conviction to stand up for what is right—I’ve demonstrated that at the state level, and I’m ready to bring that commitment to Washington.”
Both Twet-Ball and Dolter, who have never held elective office, articulated the need for a fresh approach in Washington. Dolter described himself as a “non-politician” with diverse experience across various sectors, including healthcare and education, asserting that this background equips him to effect change in Congress.
Twett-Ball drew parallels between the upcoming election and the 2018 midterms, when Democrats gained significant ground following President Donald Trump’s first election. He noted that many of the newly elected officials during that wave were newcomers to politics, reflecting a public desire for change.
Candidates Highlight Healthcare Priorities
Healthcare emerged as a significant focus during the debate. The candidates united in advocating for enhanced access to healthcare services, particularly in rural Iowa. Dolter highlighted the need to reverse Medicaid cuts outlined in the One, Big Beautiful Bill Act and to restore expiring Affordable Care Act subsidies—a sentiment echoed by all candidates.
The candidates also expressed their commitment to expanding abortion rights, with James affirming efforts to restore Roe v. Wade, the landmark Supreme Court ruling that established those rights before its reversal in 2022.
On the topic of gender-affirming care for minors, the candidates offered varying perspectives. While all agreed that parental consent should not restrict access, they had differing views on how to navigate situations where familial support may not exist. Twet-Ball remarked on the importance of parental involvement when feasible, while Dolter emphasized the necessity of parental consent for medical care, highlighting the existing regulations in many states.
Calls for Immigration System Reform
The candidates also underscored their intentions to advocate for reforming the U.S. immigration system, including both law enforcement and pathways for new immigrants. Dolter expressed support for restoring funding to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to pre-2024 levels and refocusing efforts at the border, following broader enforcement adaptations during the Trump administration.
Twet-Ball focused on the imperative of reforming immigration processes to expedite legal entry into the U.S. “I’ve seen family members wait 40 years to legally immigrate, which is unacceptable,” he stated, advocating for faster processing times.
James, a mother and person of faith, articulated her commitment to community safety while stressing the necessity for immigration reform. “Congress has consistently failed to deliver meaningful reform, and we must ensure we protect our borders while fostering a fair path to citizenship,” she asserted.
As early voting for the June 2 primary began on Wednesday, the race for the 2nd District nomination in the Republican primary is also heating up, with former state Representative Joe Mitchell competing against Senator Charlie McClintock (R-Alburnett).
