Robert Henderson

Robert Henderson was born in Muncy, Pennsylvania. Henderson earned a bachelor's degree from Kutztown University of Pennsylvania in 1971, a master's degree from Kutztown University of Pennsylvania in 1973, and a doctorate from the State University of New York at Albany in 1984.[1][2] His career experience includes working as a part-time teacher, an adjunct professor of mathematics, a university football coach, and a musician.[1][2][3] Henderson has been affiliated with the Child Evangelism Fellowship of Siouxland, the Titus Fellowship of Siouxland, the Pennsylvania Sports Hall of Fame, the Fellowship of Christian Athletes, and the American Football Coaches Association.[1][2]

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Who are you? Tell us about yourself.

I am a former teacher/professor of mathematics (over 40 years) and college football coach. I am a professional musician of over 50 years. Been married for 53 years with three adult married sons and 5 grandsons. I have had experience in the insurance business and have served as a regional director for US Senator Charles Grassley. I have two earned degrees in mathematics, as well as a doctorate in educational policy study. I am a public speaker.

Please list below 3 key messages of your campaign. What are the main points you want voters to remember about your goals for your time in office?

I believe that the fundamental purpose of our education system is: "to develop good citizens." To do that, not only do we need to train our children in the academic areas, including proper instruction in the civics of our nation, but in other critical areas of responsibility, honor, productivity and work ethic. I believe that our "education system" includes public, private as well as home schooling and it is the foundation for the future of our nation. Our schools should be responsible to work with parents for the educational needs of their children, not the other way around. Proper education is a foundational tenet of my agenda.Individual liberty is paramount for Iowans. I believe firmly in our system that was established on the foundation of the individual in control of the government, not the government in control of our lives and property. This is manifested in many ways that government can control, and it is critical that legislators be fiscally observant and responsible for the efficiency of the spending of taxpayer monies. This includes not only taxation decisions but decisions that have profound effects on the economy.As a state representative, one of my most important guiding factors is to defend the Iowa and American values that will keep our state and country united and strong. One of the ways to do that is to preserve the honor and dignity of our increasing senior population. The experience and wisdom that they bring to our state, nation and society is invaluable to its existence and needs to be maintained. This translates into many areas to be addressed relating to the care and protection of our older population.

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

I have identified three areas previously, but in specific they translate to: Educational management, maintenance of local control and constant oversight of tax policies.

Who do you look up to? Whose example would you like to follow, and why?

My life example is Jesus Christ both practically and spiritually. All others, though perhaps profoundly strong in a few areas fall short. He does not.

Is there a book, essay, film, or something else you would recommend to someone who wants to understand your political philosophy?

DECISION POINTS by George W. Bush, Most of the writings and books by Professor Stephan L. Carter

What characteristics or principles are most important for an elected official?

Integrity, research and work ethic for completion. Integrity for me is not just staying true to my principles, though I try hard to keep my principles in line with Biblical and then Constitutional ideals. I do not " look within myself" for guidance so much as I search for the truths founded in those long standing ideals for that guidance. Finally, a "pursuit for completion" comes with dedicated hard work. One must not be afraid to indulge in the effort to complete the task. Decisions must be made based on solid factual evidence, not on emotion or a certain following.

What qualities do you possess that you believe would make you a successful officeholder?

Integrity, Perseverance, Work Ethic, Eclectic Interest,

What do you believe are the core responsibilities for someone elected to this office?

Representing constituents does not mean "doing what they tell you to do," as that would be impossible unless one is unanimously chosen. What it means to me is using the sum of what constituents are saying along with already established foundational guidelines from sources such as the constitution, and the experience and advice from fellow and former legislators to do what is best at the time for our state and nation. This does not mean that decisions cannot be reversed or revised, and one of the best things that is available to legislators is the ability to make those revisions. Though there will always be those who will not agree with every decision that is made, it is important to be prepared to answer the reasons for those decisions and be prepared to make corrections.

What legacy would you like to leave?

He didn't try, He did!

What is the first historical event that happened in your lifetime that you remember? How old were you at the time?

The first truly historical event in my lifetime would be the Cuban Missile Crisis in 1962. I was 12 years old at that time.

What was your very first job? How long did you have it?

My first professional job was as a teacher of Mathematics in a public school in Connecticut. I continued teaching public school for the next 45 years. (with some pauses) My first actual job was summer work during high school and college years.

What is your favorite book? Why?

The Bible is my favorite tome. I read through it every year, and my favorite book from it is that of Proverbs because it is an excellent guide for life. After that, a more recent book that I like is: Letter to the American Church by Eric Metaxis

If you could be any fictional character, who would you want to be?

I'm really not much into fictional characters. Haven't finished learning about all the real ones!

What was the last song that got stuck in your head?

Boy, I am a professional musician. I probably have over 10,000 songs in my head!

What is something that has been a struggle in your life?

Not a debilitating struggle, but the struggle to balance professional service with family responsibility.

What do you believe is the ideal relationship between the governor and state legislature?

We are partners in the management of the state with overlapping but distinctive responsibilities. It is good to be in a state where the leadership in government recognizes for the most part that relationship.

What do you perceive to be your state's greatest challenges over the next decade?

Resource management in a time of rapid changes.

Do you believe that it’s beneficial for state legislators to have previous experience in government or politics?

I believe that is beneficial regarding protocol for legislative methodology, but not essential. A variety of background experience is at least as essential.

Do you believe it’s beneficial to build relationships with other legislators? Please explain your answer.

Not only is it beneficial, but it is essential. I serve in a legislature of 100 representatives and 50 senators. The collection of experiences for this legislature is greatly instrumental in policy decision making. I am grateful for the professional relationships that I have been able to cultivate and develop because it has given me a more confident means of serving.

Is there a particular legislator, past or present, whom you want to model yourself after?

I can think of many whose various characteristics stand out for me. The courage of JFK, the patience of Eisenhower, the strength of Reagan, the wisdom of Churchill, the compassion of Carter are just some.

Are you interested in running for a different political office (for example, the U.S. Congress or governor) in the future?

I have not considered this.

Both sitting legislators and candidates for office hear many personal stories from the residents of their district. Is there a story that you’ve heard that you found particularly touching, memorable, or impactful?

I have heard many stories from constituents, all of which have some impact, but none of which are so profound as to have re-directed any of my intentions.

Tell us your favorite joke.

I much enjoy jokes of all kinds, but practical jokes are my favorites both to do, and to be the target of.

Should the legislature oversee or grant the use of emergency powers?

The purpose of emergency powers is to allow for quick decisions in the event of an emergency with limited deliberation so as to provide support quickly. I believe that the legislature should grant the use of limited emergency powers, but oversee their use after the fact.

What is the first bill you would introduce if elected?

I have already introduced a number of bills for consideration in the upcoming session. Many of them are in regard to education reform, some are regarding tax reform.

What organizations or individuals have endorsed your campaign?

Endorsed by:

1) Associated General Contractors of Iowa

2) Hawkeye Bankers Association

3) Iowans for a Skilled Workforce

4) Iowa Automobile Dealers Association

5) Iowa Farm Bureau

6) Iowa Chiropractic Association

7) Iowa Association of Municipal Utilities

8) Iowa Bankers Association

Supported by:

Governor Kim Reynolds

Governor Ron DeSantis

Congressman Randy Feenstra

Senator Charles Grassley

Senator Joni Ernst

What committees interest you?

Education and Local Government are probably of most interest, but I try to have an interest in all of what we do.

What are your views on financial transparency and government accountability?

Financial transparency and accountability are essential to good representative government because the only resources that are managed by government are those provided by constituents mostly in the form of taxes. It is not government money. Having said that, however, the complication of how those resources are used is not always easily explained. The average taxpayer might not have the background to give them a complete understanding of that based only on financial accounting procedures. It is the responsibility of representatives to try to translate and explain these matters into more easily understood formats. Not an easy job, but an essential one.

Would a state ballot initiative process be good or bad for your state?

I believe that citizen input into legislative/constitutional matters is very important. However, representative government is what we have for the purpose of deliberation and review that would not be required for direct initiative. We live in a democratic republic, not a democracy. There are many initiatives with excellent intent, but I believe the best place for them to be carried is through the legislative process.

Robert Henderson did not complete [the profile publisher]'s 2022 Candidate Connection survey.

Who are you? Tell us about yourself.

My name is Bob Henderson. I was born and raised in Williamsport, Pennsylvania. I have been married for nearly 50 years to a high school classmate, Jane. In 1989, we moved to Sioux City, Iowa where I spent 20 years of my 40-year coaching and teaching career. I have earned a Bachelor's and Master's in Mathematics and a Doctorate in Educational Administration and Policy. I also spent 10 years as a university football coach, and I am a professional musician. All my life, I have been devoted to being the best husband, father, and citizen that I can. God has blessed me with my wife Jane, and three sons who are more than I could have asked for. And now I have three daughters (in law) and four grandsons. God did not do that so I could take it easy. I believe His plan is for me to use my education, experience, resources and energy toward a better place: Sioux City, Iowa, and America.

Please list below 3 key messages of your campaign. What are the main points you want voters to remember about your goals for your time in office?

I will work to control wasteful spending, eliminate needless regulations, and reduce burdensome taxes, especially on our Seniors. I will work to put in place provisions for single mothers to help them in their finances, and to help them better raise their children. I will work to re-focus our education system to develop good citizens for our communities, state and nation.

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

I am particularly concerned about a public education system that has been focused on standardized test scores in selected areas, and on the amount of money it can garner from the state and local governments. It should be focused on developing and training our young people to be good citizens, (the original purpose). As John Adams said, "we must teach them how to live life." Teaching students what it means to be a good citizen is more about the examples we set, not the test scores we achieve. We need to show them how to care about others; to plan for the future; to improve our society; to become a productive person; and to recognize that life is about more than just what they experience. These are the roots of American life. Learning these fundamentals will prepare our kids for a life of richness that will surpass what technical learning will provide. It is time that we returned to teaching these basics of American heritage and citizenship. Otherwise, we are fostering a generation that will have the tools of technology without the understanding of when to use it and when not to use it.

Who do you look up to? Whose example would you like to follow, and why?

Personally: My father who was the most focused, hard-working and out-going example in my life.

Politically: Dwight Eisenhauer, whose entire public life was truly devoted to making our country the greatest on earth.

Faithfully: My Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, whose teachings of how to live life now, and how to live eternally I am still learning.

What characteristics or principles are most important for an elected official?

Integrity, honesty, forthrightness, and openness to other opinions.

What qualities do you possess that you believe would make you a successful officeholder?

Hard working, focused on goals, Integrity, Personal Relationships

What do you believe are the core responsibilities for someone elected to this office?

To do exactly what the oath of office requires.

What legacy would you like to leave?

I would like to be one of those who changed the face of education in the state of Iowa to that of the founders.

What is the first historical event that happened in your lifetime that you remember? How old were you at the time?

The assassination of John F. Kennedy. I was 14 years old.

What was your very first job? How long did you have it?

Stock runner in an artificial Christmas Tree factory. It was a summer job during my Junior year of high school.

What is your favorite book? Why?

The Rise and Fall of the Third Reich because of its narration of what can happen when people do not stand up to wrong.

If you could be any fictional character, who would you want to be?

Good question, but I really prefer real people. I would name many of the founders.

What was the last song that got stuck in your head?

I am a musician. I have hundreds in my head! Whatever I tell you will be what I played recently to lead a church service.

What is something that has been a struggle in your life?

I have been blessed only on one occasion to have struggled with finances due to a loss of job and a poor economy. Other than that, I have been able to face my challenges with the help of my wife and my God.

Every state besides Nebraska has two legislative chambers. What do you consider the most important differences between the legislative chambers in your state?

Because Senators are elected for 4-year terms in Iowa, opposed to House members 2-year terms, I believe the House has a tendency to be more contentious, and is in larger danger of being influenced more by lobbying efforts.

Do you believe that it’s beneficial for state legislators to have previous experience in government or politics?

Beneficial perhaps, but not as essential at the state level as perhaps at the federal.

What do you perceive to be your state’s greatest challenges over the next decade?

I believe its greatest challenges have to do with meeting work-force difficulties, improving broad-band access, and caring for and providing for an increasing senior population.

What do you believe is the ideal relationship between the governor and the state legislature?

A good open communication between these two branches founded on the precept of working toward a better place for our citizens. The specifics of this will change as time goes on due to many factors, the least of which is emerging technology.

Do you believe it’s beneficial to build relationships with other legislators? Please explain your answer.

I suppose this refers to working relationships, and I not only believe it is beneficial, but essential. A legislator represents a specific constituency, but must determine policy for the entire state. My district's needs are not the same as others, so I must find ways to help those needs but do it in a way that benefits the state at large. This can only be done through an understanding of other legislators and who they represent.

What process do you favor for redistricting?

I favor re-districting according to citizen population without regard to political, racial, or other criteria.

If you are not a current legislator, are there certain committees that you would want to be a part of?

Education, Finance

Are you interested in running for a different political office (for example, the U.S. Congress or governor) in the future?

I am not interested in any other office at this time.

Both sitting legislators and candidates for office hear many personal stories from the residents of their district. Is there a story that you’ve heard that you found particularly touching, memorable, or impactful?

Yes. I encountered a young woman who was a single mother hurrying home from work one day, exhausted but worried that she would not get there before her baby-sitter would charge her for an additional hour. That example solidified my thinking about the two most major concerns that about 20% of our family structures face: paying their bills, and guiding their children.

A second experience I've had many times with former students who thank me for teaching them life-skills in my mathematics classes that were far more valuable to them than any of the mathematics that I wanted them to also learn. That was my intent, and I'm glad for it.