Northwest Iowa — Since 1995 State Representative Dan Huseman has served northwest Iowans in the Iowa Legislature. That came to an end over the weekend.
Huseman, who hails from Aurelia in Cherokee County, decided some months ago that it was time for him to retire, and as a result, didn’t seek reelection to his 3rd District house seat.
At the end of each legislative session, members who are retiring from their legislative service are given the opportunity to address their colleagues on the House floor. Representative Huseman delivered his retirement address Friday. In his speech, Huseman relates a town hall meeting that took place a couple of years ago.
(As above) “The issue they were talking about was term limits. And finally one lady, and she’s a good friend of mine and a good supporter, she said well, I do believe in term limits. But we need to keep some career politicians around, like Dan. That got me thinking about… I never, ever thought of myself as a career politician, and I never really wanted to have that label. Then I started thinking you know after twenty…..well now it’s twenty six years. And I’ve had the opportunity to represent three different districts and six counties. I thought, well, maybe it’s time to step aside.”
Huseman, who is 67, related that he has spent 40% of his life in the Iowa Legislature.
(As above) “I’ve spent forty percent of my life here. And, just wanted to know that……people know that….. all I wanted to do was that do my job and. Leave this place with people thinking that I was kind to them and I treated everyone fairly.”
In addition to thanking his colleagues, and Capitol Hill employees, Huseman thanked those who voted for him over the years.
(As above) “We all know that we can’t make it to this place without a lot of help, we can’t make it on our own. So I want to thank, number one, all of the people that voted for me over the years, I really appreciate it. And I’d also like to thank the all of the people that helped me get elected…..campaign workers…..it’s been a real honor and privilege to serve in this capacity.”
An emotional Huseman closed his remarks with a message to his wife.
(As above) “Mister Speaker, all good things do come to an end. So I wish you all the best. And to my wife…..Thank you, I love you, I’m coming home.”
The 2020 legislative session came to a close on Sunday.
Huseman’s complete 10-minute Farewell speech to the Iowa House can be heard below.
