BOONE, Iowa—The Joni Ernst 5th Annual Roast and Ride became an indoor event at the Central Iowa Expo, even though the weather turned out to be a non-factor. Originally scheduled for outdoors at the site, organizers quickly relocated the activity to the CITECenter, adjacent to the Central Iowa Expo grounds.
Weather did not affect the ride to Boone from Big Barn Harley Davidson in Des Moines. The 49 mile trip was completed in about one hour.
Attendees were enthusiastic, with many standing in line for pictures were guest speaker, former South Carolina Governor and UN Ambassador Nikki Haley. Haley spoke about the position taken by the Trump Administration when it comes to foreign aid to countries that don’t support a U.S. position at the UN. She encouraged attendees to work hard to keep Ernst in office because of the numbers in the Senate.
Iowa Senator Charles Grassley first asked how he could get such an enthusiastic crowd for his campaigns. He spoke about the leadership positions that Ernst has secured in her short time in Washington. He also joked that even though he got along with fellow Iowan Tom Harkin during his years in the Senate, it was nice not to be canceling out each others vote as often.
Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds talked about her relationship with Ernst and described the recent visit the President made to Iowa. She also raised questions about the candidates that have announced their intent to run against Ernst.
Ernst herself thanked everyone for turning out and supporting the event. She talked about the Roast and Ride and the freedom it represents. She said the campaign is just beginning and looked forward to working with supporters.
Of course the Roast and Ride traditionally raises funds for a designated Veterans Support organization. This year that support went to Retrieving Freedom, and agency that trains support dogs for veterans and autistic children. On hand to express thanks for the support was Scott Dewey, Chief Development Officer and Chad Johnson, Recipient Liaison for Retrieving Freedom.
Information on Retrieving Freedom is available on their website. Iowa activity is based out of Waverly.
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