MESKWAKI SETTLEMENT – The race for the District 53 seat in the Iowa house continues to heat up. Democratic challenger Tommy Hexter was invited to speak at the 108th Meskwaki Powwow over the weekend.

Before speaking, Hexter was taught and performed a dance in front of the crowd.

In a statement to the News Chronicle after his speech, Hexter shared his views on the Meskwaki Nation.

“The Meskwaki are the biggest role models that we have in the State of Iowa when it comes to solutions about sustainable food farming and keeping our water and soils healthy over time.

The State House needs to follow Meskwaki leadership on their ideas and visions for food and land sovereignty, and I want to work closely with tribal leaders to bring meaningful legislation forth,” he said. “I didn’t get all the dance moves right for the pipe dance, but just being asked to dance and speak at the Powwow was quite an honor that leaves me feeling full of energy and really grateful to be invited into the Meskwaki community.”