Iowa Candidate Survey: Eminent Domain + Carbon Pipelines

We need to elect leaders who support property rights and are informed about the risks of deadly carbon pipelines! One of the critical issues facing Iowans and communities across the state is the use of eminent domain for hazardous carbon pipelines. Landowners, farmers, and rural Iowans have been fighting to protect their property rights for over 5 years.

We asked for your help to contact candidates who have declared for offices across Iowa, ask them about CO2 pipelines and eminent domain, and then report-back the results of your outreach so we know who is claiming to be on the side of landowners and against eminent domain abuse. Thanks to everyone who has helped us so far with candidate outreach! Below are the results of Iowa Easement Team’s Candidate Survey. (View the spreadsheet where all form responses were captured.)

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GOVERNOR | U.S. Senate | U.S. House | Iowa State House | Iowa State Senate | County Supervisors

GOVERNOR

Zach Lahn (R)
Rob Sand (D)

Zach Lahn (R)

Do you believe eminent domain should be used for carbon dioxide pipelines? Why or why not?
“No. I oppose using eminent domain for private gain. Property rights are fundamental.”

What have you done in the last 5 years to help landowners protect their property rights from carbon dioxide pipelines?
“I have consistently spoken out against using eminent domain for private private gain and stood with Iowa landowners fighting to protect their property. I have also fought eminent domain on my own property and won. “

If elected, what are you willing to do to help landowners protect property rights from carbon dioxide pipelines?
“I will sign legislation protecting landowners from eminent domain for private gain.”

What are your biggest concerns about carbon dioxide pipelines and carbon capture?
“Property rights, landowner protections, safety, and ensuring taxpayers aren’t forced to surrender their land against their will.”

What makes you stronger on property rights and carbon pipelines than your opponent?
“My position is clear and consistent: no eminent domain for private gain. Iowa landowners should never be forced to surrender their property for someone else’s private project. I was on the record on this long before my opponent.”

Rob Sand (D)

Do you believe eminent domain should be used for carbon dioxide pipelines? Why or why not?
”I do not support eminent domain being used for carbon capture pipelines. I believe eminent domain is not for private gain - this is an issue for private parties to negotiate and reach individual agreements.”

What have you done in the last 5 years to help landowners protect their property rights from carbon dioxide pipelines?
“Twenty years ago, I called Suzette Kelo after her home was taken via eminent domain to build a Shopping mall, and she joined an event I organized to educate people on the risks. I’ve been outspoken about this issue in Iowa and my stance in interviews and town halls recently. I’ve also called to end the sale of Iowa farmland to foreign owned and out of state LLCs that hide the true ownership. I believe leadership requires that you communicate your positions clearly, and no matter where you fall on this debate it’s clear that Governor Reynolds hid from this issue for years refusing to take a clear position.”

If elected, what are you willing to do to help landowners protect property rights from carbon dioxide pipelines?
”I will push the legislature to send me a bill banning the use of eminent domain for the carbon capture pipeline, and I will sign it. I would also appoint IUC members that share my views.”

What are your biggest concerns about carbon dioxide pipelines and carbon capture?
“I have serious concerns about the long-term market for carbon capture as it’s wholly reliant on federal tax credits that could disappear overnight. If that happens, ethanol will be crushed if all our eggs are in the sequestration basket. Further, I do not believe that this pipeline is a common carrier, and doubt that in the long run, using CO2 to frack oil will still be allowed to be receive credit for carbon reduction.”

What makes you stronger on property rights and carbon pipelines than your opponent?
"I’ve been clear in my opposition to eminent domain for carbon capture pipelines. I believe that is the kind of clarity and leadership landowners deserve. I go everywhere and talk to everyone. Meanwhile, my opponent is an out of state investor in Iowa land, and isn’t invested in the future of our state because he doesn’t live here. He has praised Kim Reynolds’ leadership and legacy - which is an abdication of duty on this issue!”

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U.S. Senate

Ashley Hinson (R)
Thomas Laehn (L)
Josh Turek (D)

Thomas Laehn (L)

Do you believe eminent domain should be used for carbon dioxide pipelines? Why or why not?
”No. It violates the Takings Clause of the Fifth Amendment. We create government to secure our rights; when private hazardous liquid pipeline companies are vested with the power of eminent domain, government facilitates the violation of our rights, contrary to the very purpose for which it was created.”

What have you done in the last 5 years to help landowners protect their property rights from carbon dioxide pipelines?
”I drafted the initial draft of the bill that would have prohibited the use of eminent domain for the construction of hazardous liquid pipelines on agricultural land, which bill Governor Reynolds ultimately vetoed. I have also represented and advised the Greene County Board of Supervisors, which filed an objection to the construction of the Summit Carbon pipeline with the Iowa Utilities Commission.”

If elected, what are you willing to do to help landowners protect property rights from carbon dioxide pipelines?
”I will propose legislation to eliminate sections 45Q and 45Z of the Internal Revenue Code. I will also propose legislation, pursuant to section 5 of the Fourteenth Amendment, prohibiting the use of eminent domain unless it is for a bona fide public use.”

What are your biggest concerns about carbon dioxide pipelines and carbon capture?
”(1) They violate our property rights; (2) They are unconstitutional; (3) They serve no purpose other than to make the donors to our state and federal legislators wealthier; (4) They put peoples lives at risk; (5) They will drain our state's aquifers; and (6) They are a waste of taxpayer dollars when our federal deficit is growing by trillions of dollars.”

What makes you stronger on property rights and carbon pipelines than your opponent?
”I have actually drafted legislation that would have stopped carbon pipeline companies from using eminent domain to take property from unwilling landowners.”

Josh Turek (D)

Do you believe eminent domain should be used for carbon dioxide pipelines? Why or why not?
”I believe that property rights are fundamental American rights and that the power of eminent domain should not be given to private corporations. Profit does not outweigh the foundational right of American citizens. I oppose the Summit pipeline and will continue to do so.”

What have you done in the last 5 years to help landowners protect their property rights from carbon dioxide pipelines?
”I broke with my party to vote in favor of a bill that would block companies from using eminent domain to build carbon sequestration pipelines in Iowa. I was one of the most outspoken Democrats on this issue because I believe we need to protect our rural communities and Iowans’ property rights.”

If elected, what are you willing to do to help landowners protect property rights from carbon dioxide pipelines?
”I will always fight for Iowans’ property rights. We cannot allow property rights to be trampled by private corporations, particularly for a project that will further an already severe water quality crisis.”

What are your biggest concerns about carbon dioxide pipelines and carbon capture?
”First, I believe that we need to protect farmers’ right to their land, as we are continuing to lose our small family farms. Our farmers and rural communities are struggling, and having the government take their land – integral to their livelihood – will just drive us further into the farm crisis we are already facing. Second, Iowa has a significant water quality crisis. We need to be focused on alleviating our water quality issues, not worsening them. ”

What makes you stronger on property rights and carbon pipelines than your opponent?
”Ashley Hinson is being bankrolled by Bruce Rastetter, the founder of Summit Agricultural Group who has spent years trying to build a carbon capture pipeline across Iowa and fighting to use eminent domain to take farmers’ land. In August, Rastetter and Summit CEO Justin Kirchhoff hosted a fundraiser for Hinson’s U.S. Senate Campaign. They have also contributed nearly $60,000 to Hinson since 2019. Hinson cannot be trusted to fight for property rights because she’s bought and paid for by the very people who want to erode them.”

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U.S. House (CD-1)

Christina Bohannan (D)
Michael Bridgford (NP)
Mariannette Miller-Meeks (R)

Michael Bridgford (NP)

Do you believe eminent domain should be used for carbon dioxide pipelines? Why or why not?
“No. Eminent domain should not be used for for-profit projects.”

What have you done in the last 5 years to help landowners protect their property rights from carbon dioxide pipelines?
“I am a landowner myself and grew up on a 500 acre family farm that my family settled in the 1830s. My family still owns the land. In no way should a for profit project be able to take that from us.”

If elected, what are you willing to do to help landowners protect property rights from carbon dioxide pipelines?
“Support legislation that protects private property rights in all cases, as outlined in the Constitution.”

What are your biggest concerns about carbon dioxide pipelines and carbon capture?
“Eminent domain of land from owners that don't want to sell.”

What makes you stronger on property rights and carbon pipelines than your opponent?
“I have $0 donations from corporations or special interests that I would have to answer to, unlike the two candidates I'm running against.”

U.S. House
(CD-2)

Dave Bushaw (NP)
Lindsay James (D)
Joe Mitchell (R)
Rick Stewart (L)

Dave Bushaw (NP)

Do you believe eminent domain should be used for carbon dioxide pipelines? Why or why not?
”No. I do not support the use of imminent domain for private profit, and I do not support federal subsidization of carbon pipeline programs for profit. I do believe we need to use tools for carbon sequestration, but not to the detriment of property owners' rights and environmental stability.”

What have you done in the last 5 years to help landowners protect their property rights from carbon dioxide pipelines?
”The majority of my work the past 5 years has been watchdogging appropriations and spending of Covid recovery funding at the state and local level, as well as infrastructure investments from BIL/IIJA at the state and federal level. I have not spent time working on this issue”

If elected, what are you willing to do to help landowners protect property rights from carbon dioxide pipelines?
”Currently, the Iowa Utilities Board members are appointed by the governor, not elected by the public. I would advocate for the Iowa Utilities Board to be elected members rather than appointed, like more than a dozen of our neighboring states. If the actions of this board regarding carbon sequestration and imminent domain are truly in the best interest of the public, they should have no problem convincing constituents to re-elect them. I would also oppose private subsidies for carbon pipeline projects and instead advocate in the US House for a federal jobs guarantee building the necessary infrastructure to address current sequestration needs.”

What are your biggest concerns about carbon dioxide pipelines and carbon capture?
”We have two things: what do we need to do now, and what do we need to work towards. Currently, we have an issue that carbon capture helps to address -- but this cannot be the long-term solution. To reach net zero emissions, we would need more than 90,000 miles of carbon sequestration pipeline in Iowa alone. This is not feasible without imminent domain, so I cannot support it as the end-all solution. We need to use options available, which include pipelines, but not at the risk of violating property owners' rights and with risk of damaging our environment, fragile ecosystems, or the community at-large. Long term, we need to continue investment and transition to renewable energies as a national security issue, with emphasis on publicly-owned infrastructure rather than private. I am also a proponent of federally guided nuclear infrastructure expansion. I am not a proponent of privately-owned nuclear infrastructure expansion as a national security concern.”

What makes you stronger on property rights and carbon pipelines than your opponent?
”I am the only candidate using my platform to call for the Iowa Utilities Board to be an elected body rather than a body appointed by the governor. I believe voters can fix this much quicker than a hyper-divided State Legislature and Senate.”

Rick Stewart (L)

Do you believe eminent domain should be used for carbon dioxide pipelines? Why or why not?
”No, it is unconstitutional.”

What have you done in the last 5 years to help landowners protect their property rights from carbon dioxide pipelines?
”Ran for Governor 2022”

If elected, what are you willing to do to help landowners protect property rights from carbon dioxide pipelines?
”Introduce/support laws clarifying eminent domain may not be used for private gain”

What are your biggest concerns about carbon dioxide pipelines and carbon capture?
”Illegal use of eminent domain, but also they are an environmental boondoggle which exist only because of unconstitutional tax credits”

What makes you stronger on property rights and carbon pipelines than your opponent?
”I support the Constitution, neither the Republicans nor the Democrats do, they both support communist ideas such as government ownership of the means of production. Frankly it is incredible we have two political parties pretending to be different when in fact neither supports the Constitution and both love war, taxes, spending, corrupting, cheating and communism. Both the Republican and the Democratic Parties must be crushed if America is to survive.”

U.S. House
(CD-4)

Dave Dawson (D)
Jermaine Decker (NP)
Chris McGowan (R)

Dave Dawson (D)

Do you believe eminent domain should be used for carbon dioxide pipelines? Why or why not?
“I do not support the use of eminent domain for the carbon dioxide pipelines because private property should not be taken for corporate economic purposes.”

What have you done in the last 5 years to help landowners protect their property rights from carbon dioxide pipelines?
”I have stated my position opposing the use of eminent domain for the carbon dioxide pipelines repeatedly at public events during my campaign for the U.S. House over the last year. I have not been in elected office to take any other actions on this issue over the last 5 years.”

If elected, what are you willing to do to help landowners protect property rights from carbon dioxide pipelines?
”I support passing a federal law in Congress that mirrors the Private Property Rights Protection Act of 2017, which passed the U.S. House in 2018. This law would provide that no State or political subdivision could use its eminent domain power—either directly or through a delegated entity—over property intended for economic development within seven years after the use, if the State received Federal economic development funds during that fiscal year, and a violation of this rule would make the State or subdivision ineligible for Federal economic development funds for two fiscal years following a final court judgment on the merits. This law would help eliminate projects like the carbon dioxide pipeline proposal pending in Iowa which are being done for economic development and not a true public use. “

What are your biggest concerns about carbon dioxide pipelines and carbon capture?
”CO2 in high concentrations can be hazardous to human health, so building a CO2 pipeline network raises safety issues which may affect private property owners located anywhere near the pipeline.”

What makes you stronger on property rights and carbon pipelines than your opponent?
”I believe that I would actually take action to prevent eminent domain abuse at the federal level, but my opponent who is the president of the local chamber of commerce, is likely to follow the position taken by current Representative Feenstra, which is the position that there is really nothing that can be done at the federal level to address this issue.”

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Iowa State House
(HD-1)

Josh Steinhoff (R)

Josh Steinhoff (R)

Do you believe eminent domain should be used for carbon dioxide pipelines? Why or why not?
“No, because private I believe eminent domain should be used very sparingly and never for private gain.”

What have you done in the last 5 years to help landowners protect their property rights from carbon dioxide pipelines?
“I have never been elected.”

If elected, what are you willing to do to help landowners protect property rights from carbon dioxide pipelines?
“I will fight for legislation that will block the pipelines from being able to use eminent domain to acquire land.”

What are your biggest concerns about carbon dioxide pipelines and carbon capture?
“My biggest concern is the taking of private land for the pipelines.”

What makes you stronger on property rights and carbon pipelines than your opponent?
"I do not know my opponents stance on property rights.”

Iowa State House
(HD-7)

Wendy Larson (R)

Wendy Larson (R)

Do you believe eminent domain should be used for carbon dioxide pipelines? Why or why not?
“No.”

What have you done in the last 5 years to help landowners protect their property rights from carbon dioxide pipelines?
“Helped the House push no eminent domain.”

If elected, what are you willing to do to help landowners protect property rights from carbon dioxide pipelines?
“Support legislation, actively fight against eminent domain for private gain.”

What are your biggest concerns about carbon dioxide pipelines and carbon capture?
“It only benefits a few investors and owners, hurts the farmers and land owners.”

What makes you stronger on property rights and carbon pipelines than your opponent?
"I actively engage with the land owners who are against the take over of their land.”

Iowa State House
(HD-11)

Craig Williams (R)

Craig Williams (R)

Do you believe eminent domain should be used for carbon dioxide pipelines? Why or why not?
“No. Not a public purpose..”

What have you done in the last 5 years to help landowners protect their property rights from carbon dioxide pipelines?
“Advanced the first legislation in Senate sub committee - died in committee. On House judiciary where we advanced multiple property protection bills that died in the Senate. Have made no secret of my property rights stance with Farm Bureau and Corn Growers. Have written about this subject multiple times in newsletters..”

If elected, what are you willing to do to help landowners protect property rights from carbon dioxide pipelines?
“Whatever I can. I'm one of 100 in the House, so I won't pretend I have a magical cure. .”

What are your biggest concerns about carbon dioxide pipelines and carbon capture?
“First, I think they took a shortcut approach. No serious study has been done on burying co2 under the ethanol plant (if burying is necessary), or capturing at the source for industrial/commercial use. 2nd, it does not meet the definition of public purpose to use eminent domain. Third, I don't think adequate safety measures are included such as local training and equipment in the event of a leak. Combustion engines will fail.”

What makes you stronger on property rights and carbon pipelines than your opponent?
"I'm not sure where he stands.”

Iowa State House
(HD-18)

Tripp Narup (D)

Tripp Narup (D)

Do you believe eminent domain should be used for carbon dioxide pipelines? Why or why not?
“Absolutely not. Eminent domain should only be used for projects that are for the public good. The CO2 pipeline is strictly for private gain. Furthermore, there is no evidence that carbon sequestration works or that it reduces anyone's carbon footprint. Finally, the current proposal has been changed so many times it's no longer clear what they actually want to do. The whole thing needs to be thrown out.”

What have you done in the last 5 years to help landowners protect their property rights from carbon dioxide pipelines?
“I have attended most public meetings in Montgomery County and have expressed my opposition to the pipeline project at the MoCo Board of Supervisors meetings. I also sponsored a resolution from the Villisca City Council opposing the pipeline. The proposed route was only 1 mile north of town and a catastrophic leak could wipe out our entire town.”

If elected, what are you willing to do to help landowners protect property rights from carbon dioxide pipelines?
“Pass the bill banning eminent domain for CO2 pipelines. If that doesn't work, I would sponsor a bill to restructure the Iowa Utilities Commission to make it more responsive to the needs of the people.”

What are your biggest concerns about carbon dioxide pipelines and carbon capture?
“They are dangerous! They are also a boondoggle. Without huge government subsidies there is no market for CO2 pipelines.”

What makes you stronger on property rights and carbon pipelines than your opponent?
"I've never seen my opponent at a public information meeting about pipelines. I don't think he talked to the Cass County board of supervisors. In fairness, he did vote for HF2104 which banned the use of eminent domain for CO2 pipelines.”

Iowa State House
(HD-19)

Benjamin Thomas Larson (D)

Benjamin Thomas Larson (D)

Do you believe eminent domain should be used for carbon dioxide pipelines? Why or why not?
“No, not at all. This pipeline was for business and was to be used as a cheap method for porting large quantities of CO2 to be used for the ethanol fermentation process- using it to steal property this way is simply sending a message nationwide that a corporation can bully Iowans as they choose.”

What have you done in the last 5 years to help landowners protect their property rights from carbon dioxide pipelines?
“This is my first major run for political office so my resume for protesting against pipelines and attempts like this is all on the active street protest scale, but I was involved in the DAPL protests going back to even 2016.”

If elected, what are you willing to do to help landowners protect property rights from carbon dioxide pipelines?
“More than just passing stronger laws on personal ownership, barriers to legal action have to be lowered against corporations, and many of the laws republicans have passed (such as HF2527, which reduces punishments against polluters) have to be repealed. This way it's not just protecting YOU from pipelines- its also giving the people the legal ability and muscle to oppose.”

What are your biggest concerns about carbon dioxide pipelines and carbon capture?
“As a staunch environmentalist, we have discovered in the past ~5 years that ethanol corn and it's production does the environment more harm than good, even aside from the issues of a monocrop or stripping the soil of nutrients- it also damages the environment of the soil itself and ruins it's ability to retain moisture. Ethanol corn and it's production can not be totally removed- We will always need it for sequestering water from fuel, it's used in Sta-bil for a reason, and it's great as cheap race gas- but we have much better and cheaper methods for saving the environment. This is also that in the event of a leak, while the acid it generates is natural to all living creatures (carbonic acid), is still an acid.

Carbon capture is also a technology, or a system of technologies, that frequently I see little purpose in. CO2 scrubbing requires mined calcium carbonate, and while it's sequestering underground is something that can keep those emptied wells from filling and allowing the ground above to sink- in general, the best CO2 sequestering tool is mother nature herself. Hedgerows, wildflowers, other intentional engineering and conservation/cultivation of mother nature works far better, which will also help clean our water supply. Being better stewards and expanding our renewable infrastructure can do far more for carbon capture than shoving millions of tons of CO2 into the ground and hoping it doesn't become an acid because water got into it.”

What makes you stronger on property rights and carbon pipelines than your opponent?
"My opponent Passed HF 2527, which limits punishments on corporations who pollute into our air and water, and voted for stripping funding for Iowan water quality monitoring (IIHR Hydroscience and water quality monitoring) which required grant funding to keep even a small number running. That can be seen from Chris Jones and Bleeding Heartland's Larry Weber that both documented and reported on it. My opponent has a track record of failing Iowan's on public health and basic water quality, and now we are all paying for it.”

Iowa State House
(HD-22)

Samantha Fett (R)

Samantha Fett (R)

Do you believe eminent domain should be used for carbon dioxide pipelines? Why or why not?
“No, eminent domain should not be used for private gain.”

What have you done in the last 5 years to help landowners protect their property rights from carbon dioxide pipelines?
“As a State House Representative and member of the Judiciary Committee, I’ve been deeply engaged in advancing legislation that protects Iowa property owners. I helped move key bills through the subcommittee process to limit abuses by large companies and the IUB, and I have consistently voted YES on every measure that strengthens property rights. In 2025, I also joined the legislative group that filed a lawsuit to defend landowners and ensure accountability in the process.”

If elected, what are you willing to do to help landowners protect property rights from carbon dioxide pipelines?
“Yes.”

What are your biggest concerns about carbon dioxide pipelines and carbon capture?
“The safety and the actual need for them.”

What makes you stronger on property rights and carbon pipelines than your opponent?
"My record and advocacy on the issue.”

Iowa State House
(HD-23)

Ray Sorensen (R)

Ray Sorensen (R)

Do you believe eminent domain should be used for carbon dioxide pipelines? Why or why not?
“No. I believe eminent domain should be reserved for legitimate public uses, not used to force private landowners to surrender their property for a private, for-profit project. Carbon dioxide pipelines should be built through voluntary agreements with willing landowners, not through the heavy hand of government. I support Iowa agriculture, ethanol and economic development, but private property rights are a fundamental principle that should not be sacrificed in the process.”

What have you done in the last 5 years to help landowners protect their property rights from carbon dioxide pipelines?
“I have consistently supported legislation strengthening landowner protections. In 2023, I publicly supported HF 368, which would have required pipeline companies to obtain 90% voluntary easements before seeking eminent domain and provided additional protections for landowners suffering damage to drainage, soil or irrigation systems. In 2025, I supported HF 943 and ultimately HF 639 to restrict eminent domain for CO2 pipelines. When Governor Reynolds vetoed HF 639, I signed the legislative petition calling for a special session to override that veto. I have also consistently made my position clear publicly: private pipeline companies should not be able to use the heavy hand of government to take land from unwilling Iowans.”

If elected, what are you willing to do to help landowners protect property rights from carbon dioxide pipelines?
“I will continue voting for meaningful eminent-domain reform and working to get legislation through both chambers and signed into law. My position is straightforward: private CO2 pipeline projects should obtain the land they need through voluntary agreements, not government-forced condemnation. I am willing to work with anyone—Republican or Democrat—on legislation that provides strong, workable and lasting protections for Iowa landowners.”

What are your biggest concerns about carbon dioxide pipelines and carbon capture?
“My biggest concern is the precedent created when government allows a private, for-profit company to use eminent domain against unwilling landowners. Property rights don’t mean much if they disappear when a project becomes politically or economically desirable. I also have concerns about pipeline safety, long-term liability, restoration of agricultural land and drainage systems, and making sure landowners aren’t left carrying the consequences years after construction. I support innovation and a strong ethanol industry, but those goals should not require sacrificing the constitutional property rights of Iowans.”

What makes you stronger on property rights and carbon pipelines than your opponent?
"I won’t question my opponent’s stated opposition to eminent domain for CO2 pipelines. The difference is that I have already had to cast the votes. For years, I have publicly supported stronger landowner protections, voted for legislation restricting eminent domain, and signed the effort to bring the Legislature back into special session to override the Governor’s veto of those protections. Voters don’t have to take my word for what I would do—they can look at what I’ve already done. I will continue standing up for private property rights regardless of which party or powerful interest is on the other side.”

Iowa State House
(HD-31)

Kevin W Dubay (R)

Kevin W Dubay (R)

Do you believe eminent domain should be used for carbon dioxide pipelines? Why or why not?
“No. I don’t believe eminent domain should be used for any reason. It is a government overreach and I will fight to protect all property owners rights full stop.”

What have you done in the last 5 years to help landowners protect their property rights from carbon dioxide pipelines?
“I have consistently supported legislation strengthening landowner protections. In 2023, I publicly supported I’m a first time candidate. I am running to have a voice after I win the election in November.”

If elected, what are you willing to do to help landowners protect property rights from carbon dioxide pipelines?
“I am and will continue to be a vocal advocate for all Iowa land owners. I will work across party lines and with the governor to ensure that Iowa land owners rights are protected.”

What are your biggest concerns about carbon dioxide pipelines and carbon capture?
“My biggest concern is government overreach and unnecessary regulation leading to higher costs for business that then gets passed on to Iowa consumers. CO2 carbon capture is part of the liberal green new deal which I am opposed to. Being a steward of the land should be left property owners, not the government.”

What makes you stronger on property rights and carbon pipelines than your opponent?
"I don’t know where my opponent stands on this issue, but she is a liberal social justice warrior so I bet she supports the liberal green new deal.”

Iowa State House
(HD-39)

Troy Clark (R)

Troy Clark (R)

Do you believe eminent domain should be used for carbon dioxide pipelines? Why or why not?
“Absolutely NOT! Eminent domain should only be used as a last resort, and then only for public improvement. CO2 pipelines come with great risk, and the science behind CO2 sequestration is lacking. CO2 is a major component of our atmosphere, and required for plant life. We as humans are NOT causing an increase in CO2!”

What have you done in the last 5 years to help landowners protect their property rights from carbon dioxide pipelines?
“Other than making my views known and sharing on social media, and supporting elected officials that against the pipelines, I have not done much. But as a candidate and once elected, I will do all that can to protect our landowners from abuse.”

If elected, what are you willing to do to help landowners protect property rights from carbon dioxide pipelines?
“I will be a staunch proponent of constitutional property rights, and work with fellow supporters of the constitution to make eminent domain protections stronger.”

What are your biggest concerns about carbon dioxide pipelines and carbon capture?
“It is a potentially very dangerous environmental risk and is being used for a very much unproven "problem" global warming. I consider climate change a way for the government to steal more of our hard-earned money and launder it to those people and organizations that are against our American way of life.”

What makes you stronger on property rights and carbon pipelines than your opponent?
"For the most part, the Republican party has stood up for the people and landowners, and also for the constitutional rights of them. The Democrat party has mostly been in lockstep with the environmental movement. Sadly, Democrats almost always stick together in pushing their causes, one of which is the "green" agenda. My Democrat opponent will most likely fall in line with his party to push the agenda of the left.”

Iowa State House
(HD-42)

Heather Stephenson (R)

Heather Stephenson (R)

Do you believe eminent domain should be used for carbon dioxide pipelines? Why or why not?
“No. I don’t believe eminent domain should be used for carbon dioxide pipelines because private property rights are a fundamental American principle. Eminent domain gives the government significant power to take or burden private property, so it should be reserved for situations with a clear and compelling public necessity. When a CO₂ pipeline primarily serves a private commercial project, I don’t think landowners should be forced to give up rights to their property for that company’s benefit.”

What have you done in the last 5 years to help landowners protect their property rights from carbon dioxide pipelines?
“I have not been engaged in this debate.”

If elected, what are you willing to do to help landowners protect property rights from carbon dioxide pipelines?
“If elected, I will stand with landowners and work to ensure that private property cannot be taken through eminent domain for the benefit of private carbon dioxide pipeline projects. I will support legislation that strengthens property-rights protections, increases transparency and accountability in the permitting process, and ensures landowners have a meaningful voice before decisions are made. I will also oppose efforts to weaken existing protections or expand eminent-domain authority for private projects.”

What are your biggest concerns about carbon dioxide pipelines and carbon capture?
“My biggest concerns are the use of eminent domain, public safety, and whether these projects truly serve the public interest. I strongly oppose forcing landowners to give up property rights so a private company can profit from a carbon dioxide pipeline. I also believe legitimate questions remain about pipeline safety, emergency preparedness, long-term liability, and the costs and effectiveness of carbon capture. Any project of this magnitude should face rigorous scrutiny, and protecting landowners, taxpayers, and local communities must come before corporate interests.”

What makes you stronger on property rights and carbon pipelines than your opponent?
"I grew up as a Western Iowa farm kid, so I understand firsthand what the family farm means to Iowans. It is more than an asset—it represents generations of hard work, sacrifice, and stewardship. That perspective shapes my strong commitment to private property rights and my opposition to using eminent domain for private carbon dioxide pipeline projects. My opponent does not bring that same firsthand understanding of how deeply these decisions affect farm families and rural communities. I will stand with Iowa landowners and fight to ensure their property rights are protected.”

Iowa State House
(HD-48)

Benjamin Olsen (R)

Benjamin Olsen (R)

Do you believe eminent domain should be used for carbon dioxide pipelines? Why or why not?
“I do not believe eminent domain should be used for carbon dioxide pipelines, as eminent domain is meant for the public good, not private benefit.”

What have you done in the last 5 years to help landowners protect their property rights from carbon dioxide pipelines?
“At the moment, I am working through the Iowa Utilities Commission to understand the permitting process related to the Summit Carbon Solutions pipeline and related lawsuit. I’m planning to submit my own petition regarding the permitting process for this project due to changes in route, purpose, and destination. ”

If elected, what are you willing to do to help landowners protect property rights from carbon dioxide pipelines?
“Yes! I do not believe eminent domain should be used for this purpose. Private organizations should not be able to weaponize state power for their own benefit.”

What are your biggest concerns about carbon dioxide pipelines and carbon capture?
“My biggest concerns about carbon dioxide pipelines are land acquisition, property destruction, and the consequences of leakage.”

What makes you stronger on property rights and carbon pipelines than your opponent?
"My opponent has had two years to make progress in protecting Iowa's property owners and has chosen not to. Their primary focus during their time in office has been to sponsor bills related to amateur kickboxing and custom motorcycles with no notable commitment that I can find to protecting Iowa’s landowners. Unlike my opponent, I understand and recognize the importance of keeping the power of eminent domain in check. I will work to protect Iowans from being subjected to eminent domain for carbon pipelines.”

Iowa State House
(HD-51)

Teresa Perin (R)

Teresa Perin (R)

Do you believe eminent domain should be used for carbon dioxide pipelines? Why or why not?
“No. It is not a matter of public benefit.”

What have you done in the last 5 years to help landowners protect their property rights from carbon dioxide pipelines?
“I am running for the state house.”

If elected, what are you willing to do to help landowners protect property rights from carbon dioxide pipelines?
“Vote against it.”

What are your biggest concerns about carbon dioxide pipelines and carbon capture?
“It is continuing poor environmental care by propoting fossil fuel use and fracking.”

What makes you stronger on property rights and carbon pipelines than your opponent?
"My opponent takes money from Ratstetter and votes for the use of eminent domain.”

Iowa State House
(HD-55)

Cynthia Paschen (D)

Cynthia Paschen (D)

Do you believe eminent domain should be used for carbon dioxide pipelines? Why or why not?
“No. Eminent domain should be used for the public good.”

What have you done in the last 5 years to help landowners protect their property rights from carbon dioxide pipelines?
“Attended lobby days and community meetings with Summit. Ran for the Iowa Senate against Guth and Green.”

If elected, what are you willing to do to help landowners protect property rights from carbon dioxide pipelines?
“Introduce legislation, stand up to Summit.”

What are your biggest concerns about carbon dioxide pipelines and carbon capture?
“Safety and public health risk. Our rural EMTs are not prepared to deal with a leak.”

What makes you stronger on property rights and carbon pipelines than your opponent?
"My opponent (Beau Klaver) is a former clerk for Annette Sweeney. Like Sen. Sweeney, he is in favor of widening the corridor, and not an advocate for landowners.”

Iowa State House
(HD-57)

Shawn Ellerbroek (D)
Pat Grassley (R)

Shawn Ellerbroek (D)

Do you believe eminent domain should be used for carbon dioxide pipelines? Why or why not?
“No. Private companies should not be able to come in and steal other people's land for profit. ”

What have you done in the last 5 years to help landowners protect their property rights from carbon dioxide pipelines?
“I have attended a number of carbon pipeline meetings, gaining and sharing knowledge. I routinely support the cause publicly.”

If elected, what are you willing to do to help landowners protect property rights from carbon dioxide pipelines?
“Yes, no question.”

What are your biggest concerns about carbon dioxide pipelines and carbon capture?
“Trampling owners rights. Safety.”

What makes you stronger on property rights and carbon pipelines than your opponent?
"I cannot answer this question. But without any insinuation, I will say that I am not supported in anyway by those who have vested-financial interest in the pipeline being built.”

Pat Grassley (R)

Do you believe eminent domain should be used for carbon dioxide pipelines? Why or why not?
“In the Iowa House, we have passed several bills to protect landowners dating back to the 2023 session. The very first bill we passed in the 2026 Legislative Session explicitly stated that eminent domain cannot be used for the construction of carbon capture pipelines. In past sessions, we’ve tried various legislative avenues to try and get something over the finish line. In 2025, we passed House File 943 which would have prohibited the taking of agricultural land for a pipeline transporting liquified carbon dioxide. We also passed House File 639, which would have protected Iowa landowners by requiring hazardous liquid pipeline owners to carry liability insurance and compensate property owners for any resulting insurance cost increases. Additionally, it strengthened eminent domain restrictions and enhanced landowner representation and participation in Iowa Utilities Commission proceedings. In 2024, we passed House File 2664 to allow landowners who are subject to eminent domain from CO2 pipeline companies to challenge the legitimacy of those requests in court earlier in the permit process. In 2023, we passed a bill requiring carbon capture pipeline companies reach voluntary easements for 90% of the land on their route before they could seek to use eminent domain. As my track record shows, I have never wavered on this issue. ”

What have you done in the last 5 years to help landowners protect their property rights from carbon dioxide pipelines?
“See the previous answer. I will continue being at the forefront of this issue and making sure this gets brought up for debate.”

If elected, what are you willing to do to help landowners protect property rights from carbon dioxide pipelines?
“Yes, no question.”

What are your biggest concerns about carbon dioxide pipelines and carbon capture?
“Iowans’ connection to their land runs deep. My biggest concern is making sure that the protections that landowners deserve are explicitly clear in Iowa Code.”

What makes you stronger on property rights and carbon pipelines than your opponent?
"As Speaker, what separates me from not only my opponent but almost anyone else running for office is that I set the agenda of what issues are brought up in the Iowa House, and based on my track record of multiple bills being passed out of the House, my position isn’t just rhetoric or talk, it's action and leadership.”

Iowa State House
(HD-60)

Dani Ollenburg (R)
Alexander Schmidt (D)

Dani Ollenburg (R)

Do you believe eminent domain should be used for carbon dioxide pipelines? Why or why not?
“The constitution is clear. Eminent domain is to only ever be used for a legitimate public use.”

What have you done in the last 5 years to help landowners protect their property rights from carbon dioxide pipelines?
“Primaried out a 10 year incumbent that voted against the "No Eminent Domain for Private Gain" bill in support of landowner rights.”

If elected, what are you willing to do to help landowners protect property rights from carbon dioxide pipelines?
“Will support legislation to provide and uphold landowner protections.”

What are your biggest concerns about carbon dioxide pipelines and carbon capture?
“1. I am concerned private corporations will continue to try and find a way to use eminent domain for private gain. 2. The Green New Deal tax credits being used to subsidize the pipeline.”

What makes you stronger on property rights and carbon pipelines than your opponent?
"My opponent aligns with the Democrat Socialists of America. The Green New Deal is outlined in the DSA platform. Their platform does not support true private property ownership and explicitly supports transferring private property into public and collective ownership under big government control.”

Alexander Schmidt (D)

Do you believe eminent domain should be used for carbon dioxide pipelines? Why or why not?
“No, I do not believe eminent domain should be used for a pipeline that is not a public utility, and it's construction should neither be subsidized by the government, nor granted the right of eminent domain. ”

What have you done in the last 5 years to help landowners protect their property rights from carbon dioxide pipelines?
“I have attended strategy meetings for (and became a member of) Iowa Citizens for Community Improvement (CCI) and have ran my house campaign as an advocate for property rights.”

If elected, what are you willing to do to help landowners protect property rights from carbon dioxide pipelines?
“I would engage in advocacy and engage the media on the issue.”

What are your biggest concerns about carbon dioxide pipelines and carbon capture?
“The seizure of land and property, the environmental safety and the perpetuation of big oil and ethanol.”

What makes you stronger on property rights and carbon pipelines than your opponent?
"I have researched the issue of carbon pipelines, writing and producing multiple news stories on the issue. In so doing, I have built many local contacts on both sides of the issue. I can also see the Absolute Energy Ethanol plant from my house, its former proposed route through Mitchell County was a few miles away.”

Iowa State House
(HD-61)

Lucas Hewitt (D)

Lucas Hewitt (D)

Do you believe eminent domain should be used for carbon dioxide pipelines? Why or why not?
“No, I have not seen a compelling reason that a CO2 pipeline fits the definition of a "public use.”

What have you done in the last 5 years to help landowners protect their property rights from carbon dioxide pipelines?
“N/A”

If elected, what are you willing to do to help landowners protect property rights from carbon dioxide pipelines?
“Support bans on eminent domain use for CO2 pipelines and strengthen rules around when eminent domain can be used in Iowa.”

What are your biggest concerns about carbon dioxide pipelines and carbon capture?
“I'm not convinced on the efficacy of this approach to reducing emissions.”

What makes you stronger on property rights and carbon pipelines than your opponent?
"I believe my opponent and I would agree on a lot related to the pipeline but may differ on property rights if the issues were expanded past the pipeline. I am generally skeptical of government action that reduces property rights regardless of the overarching intent or goal including issues that a Democratic candidate may be more inclined to make exceptions for like conservation and clean energy.”

Iowa State House
(HD-64)

Brian Bruening (D)
Jason Gearhart (R)

Brian Bruening (D)

Do you believe eminent domain should be used for carbon dioxide pipelines? Why or why not?
“No. Eminent domain should be reserved for public projects such as roads or industries that are publicly regulated such as utilities.”

What have you done in the last 5 years to help landowners protect their property rights from carbon dioxide pipelines?
“As the chair of the Clayton County Democrats and as a candidate for various offices, I have always held up landowner rights as an important issue.”

If elected, what are you willing to do to help landowners protect property rights from carbon dioxide pipelines?
“I would not support legislation that reduced landowners' property rights and would support legislation that would protect them.”

What are your biggest concerns about carbon dioxide pipelines and carbon capture?
“Outside of the potential danger of the pipeline, I am not convinced it's a viable method of reducing CO2 in the environment. It many ways, it just seems like a way for ethanol plants to get further government subsidies.”

What makes you stronger on property rights and carbon pipelines than your opponent?
"With House File 639, my opponent Jason Gearhart was absent for the vote. During his time in the legislature, he has not introduced or cosponsored any legislation I'm aware of to restrict CO2 pipelines or protect landowners.”

Jason Gearhart (R)

Do you believe eminent domain should be used for carbon dioxide pipelines? Why or why not?
“No. I don't believe it is for public use.”

What have you done in the last 5 years to help landowners protect their property rights from carbon dioxide pipelines?
“In my first term I have stood with private property owners and voted against eminent domain for carbon capture pipelines multiple times. I have also co-sponsored bills with many colleagues to protect landowners.”

If elected, what are you willing to do to help landowners protect property rights from carbon dioxide pipelines?
“I will continue to protect landowners rights with my votes and with sponsoring/co-sponsoring legislation to protect your property!”

What are your biggest concerns about carbon dioxide pipelines and carbon capture?
“The eminent domain associated with it.”

What makes you stronger on property rights and carbon pipelines than your opponent?
"I have a proven record showing that I stand with landowners and private property rights. I have no idea where my opponent stands on this issue.”

Iowa State House
(HD-66)

Matt English (D)

Matt English (D)

Do you believe eminent domain should be used for carbon dioxide pipelines? Why or why not?
“No. Property rights must prevent the seizure of land for the enrichment of others.”

What have you done in the last 5 years to help landowners protect their property rights from carbon dioxide pipelines?
“As a high school social studies teacher, I have spent each year to teach about the rights that are protected under the U.S. Constitution.”

If elected, what are you willing to do to help landowners protect property rights from carbon dioxide pipelines?
“Introduce or support a bill to ban the seizure of lands for carbon dioxide pipelines or any other project which would enrich an individual or corporation.”

What are your biggest concerns about carbon dioxide pipelines and carbon capture?
“Loss of property and risk to the environment.”

What makes you stronger on property rights and carbon pipelines than your opponent?
"I am the son of a 5th-generation Iowa farmer, who is dedicated to protecting property rights and the environment.”

Iowa State House
(HD-76)

Calvin Horn (D)

Calvin Horn (D)

Do you believe eminent domain should be used for carbon dioxide pipelines? Why or why not?
“No. Eminent domain should only be used as a last resort and only for the common good of Iowans. Carbon pipelines do not meet that criteria.”

What have you done in the last 5 years to help landowners protect their property rights from carbon dioxide pipelines?
“Nothing. I was too wrapped up to the underlying hypocracy that led to this situation.”

If elected, what are you willing to do to help landowners protect property rights from carbon dioxide pipelines?
“Everything in my power. The potential for harm is too high.”

What are your biggest concerns about carbon dioxide pipelines and carbon capture?
“From the beginning carbon capture was a false solution. The dangers these pipelines present are far greater than any possible benefits they may deliver.”

What makes you stronger on property rights and carbon pipelines than your opponent?
"I don't know my opponents position on pipelines. My background is in Real Estate. I have always been a strong believer in property ownership. It's one of the things that makes America great and one of the richest nations in the world. As for carbon pipelines, I oppose anything harmful to the common good of Iowa.”

Iowa State House
(HD-79)

Barclay Woerner (D)

Barclay Woerner (D)

Do you believe eminent domain should be used for carbon dioxide pipelines? Why or why not?
“No. It should not be used for private use.”

What have you done in the last 5 years to help landowners protect their property rights from carbon dioxide pipelines?
“I have talked with friends and family about the use of impact eminent domain can have on every landowner. I have also discussed this issue during my campaign stops and door knocking.”

If elected, what are you willing to do to help landowners protect property rights from carbon dioxide pipelines?
“I will support returning the use of eminent domain to public “use” and limiting its use.”

What are your biggest concerns about carbon dioxide pipelines and carbon capture?
“My fears are the kill zone from a rupture and that they will be used to supply carbon dioxide to manufacturers at tax payer and landowner expense.”

What makes you stronger on property rights and carbon pipelines than your opponent?
"My opponent supports government control of many aspects of our lives while I support individual freedom.”

Iowa State House
(HD-82)

James Behrmann (D)

James Behrmann (D)

Do you believe eminent domain should be used for carbon dioxide pipelines? Why or why not?
“No. I don't believe the government should be able to take someone's private property so a private company can build a pipeline. If a company wants to use someone's land, they should have to work with that landowner and reach an agreement. I believe property rights matter, and private corporations shouldn't be able to use eminent domain to force their way onto people's land.”

What have you done in the last 5 years to help landowners protect their property rights from carbon dioxide pipelines?
“I have not been directly involved in the fight against carbon dioxide pipelines over the last five years. I’m a first-time candidate, and this issue has made me take a much closer look at the rights of Iowa landowners. What I can promise is that if elected, I will stand with landowners and work to protect private property rights from the use of eminent domain for private corporate projects.”

If elected, what are you willing to do to help landowners protect property rights from carbon dioxide pipelines?
“I would work to pass legislation that prohibits the use of eminent domain for privately owned carbon dioxide pipelines. I would also support stronger protections for landowners during the permitting process and make sure landowners have a meaningful voice when projects affect their property. If a project materially changes its route, purpose, or destination after approval, I believe it should have to go through a new review rather than simply continuing under an old permit.”

What are your biggest concerns about carbon dioxide pipelines and carbon capture?
“My biggest concerns are property rights, safety, and accountability. I don't think Iowa landowners should have their property taken through eminent domain for a privately owned pipeline. I'm also concerned about the potential consequences of a pipeline leak, the long term safety of transporting and storing large amounts of CO2, and whether these projects actually provide enough public benefit to justify the risks and the use of eminent domain.”

What makes you stronger on property rights and carbon pipelines than your opponent?
"I respect that Bobby has supported protections for landowners. Where I differ is that I believe property rights should be a simple principle: government should not take private property for the benefit of a private corporation. If a company wants to use someone's land, they should have to reach an agreement with that landowner.”

Iowa State House
(HD-83)

Cindy Golding (R)

Cindy Golding (R)

Do you believe eminent domain should be used for carbon dioxide pipelines? Why or why not?
“Eminent domain should NOT be used for Carbon Sequestration, a private company endeavor to enhance proits.”

What have you done in the last 5 years to help landowners protect their property rights from carbon dioxide pipelines?
“Before I was elected to the Iowa House I was a leader in the local movement to stop the CO2 pipeline from traversing our state. I have sponsored or co-sponsored several bills that give more protection to landowners. Groups have asked me to speak on the issue and I have been on several podcasts & radio shows discussing the inherent problems with both the sequestration of carbon dioxide and the dangers of the pipeline. As one of 44 Republican intervenors, I have put my name and reputation on the line to defend the landowners. ”

If elected, what are you willing to do to help landowners protect property rights from carbon dioxide pipelines?
“I will continue the battle, electing leaders who will move the legislation to the floor for a vote.”

What are your biggest concerns about carbon dioxide pipelines and carbon capture?
“CO2 pipelines are tax boondoggle and a disaster waiting to happen. The lack of concern about safety and the dismissive attitude of the pipeline companies is appalling. Carbon dioxide is a critical natural gas that has been mislabeled, enabling profiteers to make millions at our expense.”

What makes you stronger on property rights and carbon pipelines than your opponent?
"My opponent lives in a community directly impacted by the potential pipeline yet has never attended a meeting nor publicly expressed any opinion. He is supported by the unions that support the pipeline.”

Iowa State House
(HD-84)

Polly Denison (D)
Thomas Gerhold (R)

Polly Denison (D)

Do you believe eminent domain should be used for carbon dioxide pipelines? Why or why not?
“No. I believe there should be very limited uses for eminent domain and those should be 100% in the public's best interest, not those of private interests.”

What have you done in the last 5 years to help landowners protect their property rights from carbon dioxide pipelines?
“I have attended informational meetings to become more knowledgeable about the issues.”

If elected, what are you willing to do to help landowners protect property rights from carbon dioxide pipelines?
“Listen to consituents in my district and across the state and represent them accordingly. I will vote accordingly.”

What are your biggest concerns about carbon dioxide pipelines and carbon capture?
“Aside from the use of eminent domain to seize privately owned property, there are major concerns regarding public safety risks from asphyxiation, weak federal regulations, and debates over whether the technology genuinely reduces emissions or prolongs fossil fuel dependency.”

What makes you stronger on property rights and carbon pipelines than your opponent?
"While Thomas Gerhold may have co-sponsored legislation related ito pipelines, including permit renewal and operation limitations, he lacks the intellectual curiosity to change said legislation so that it passes and becomes law. I do not know if that is by design or ability. I attend meetings, I read susccessful legislation, and want to put that knowledge to use for Iowans.”

Thomas Gerhold (R)

Do you believe eminent domain should be used for carbon dioxide pipelines? Why or why not?
“No. The carbon pipelines are for private companies, which does not meet the criteria for eminent domain. Also, they are not needed - carbon dioxide is not a poison and is needed for plant growth. Also, this website says: "The South Dakota Supreme Court recently rejected Summit’s claim that it qualifies as a “common carrier,” which would grant it eminent domain authority. The court rightly noted that Summit’s activities – transporting CO₂ for private profit – do not meet the criteria for public use.”

What have you done in the last 5 years to help landowners protect their property rights from carbon dioxide pipelines?
“I was part of a group of about 40 legislators that filed a lawsuit against the Summit pipeline.”

If elected, what are you willing to do to help landowners protect property rights from carbon dioxide pipelines?
“I will continue to protect property rights of Iowa citizens and landowners.”

What are your biggest concerns about carbon dioxide pipelines and carbon capture?
“It's a violation of property rights, a waste of taxpayers' money, and the amount of carbon injected below the surface of the ground is miniscule compared to the amount above ground.”

What makes you stronger on property rights and carbon pipelines than your opponent?
"I don't know my opponent's stance on either of these.”

Iowa State House
(HD-87)

Jeff Shipley (R)

Jeff Shipley (R)

Do you believe eminent domain should be used for carbon dioxide pipelines? Why or why not?
“NO -- C02 sequestration is not a public use.”

What have you done in the last 5 years to help landowners protect their property rights from carbon dioxide pipelines?
“I think I sued the Utility Commission with Helena Hayes.”

If elected, what are you willing to do to help landowners protect property rights from carbon dioxide pipelines?
“Will not vote to approve a budget until property rights are protected.”

What are your biggest concerns about carbon dioxide pipelines and carbon capture?
“Ethanol is stupid. Crops should be grown for food, not fuel.”

What makes you stronger on property rights and carbon pipelines than your opponent?
"Last election cycle my opponent didn't even take a position on the issue. He's been backed by the labor unions so I suspect he'd echo the same line that Iowa House Democrats have in supporting the project.”

Iowa State House
(HD-88)

Helena Hayes (R)

Helena Hayes (R)

Do you believe eminent domain should be used for carbon dioxide pipelines? Why or why not?
“No. Because eminent domain is for public use projects that directly benefit all, not privately owned company perks.”

What have you done in the last 5 years to help landowners protect their property rights from carbon dioxide pipelines?
“I have served in the legislature for fours years and have worked to pass each of the bills we introduced in the House. Organized press conferences, public information events, assisted landownerns in their opposition in the Navigator route, helped lead the RLIJ - the Republican Legislative Interveeners for Justice as we opposed the docket with the IUC and the federal and state lawsuit that was brought forward.”

If elected, what are you willing to do to help landowners protect property rights from carbon dioxide pipelines?
“Absolutely - 110%”

What are your biggest concerns about carbon dioxide pipelines and carbon capture?
“Eminent domain and safety”

What makes you stronger on property rights and carbon pipelines than your opponent?
"I do not have a general opponent but if I did, I have five years of experience as we have seen Navigator go defunct and Summit pull some crazy stunts.”

Iowa State House
(HD-89)

Daniel Arch (NP)
Elinor A. Levin (D)

Elinor A. Levin (D)

Do you believe eminent domain should be used for carbon dioxide pipelines? Why or why not?
“I do not. CO2 pipeline projects do not, in any way, meet the criteria for "public good" which must be top of mind in consideration for eminent domain.”

What have you done in the last 5 years to help landowners protect their property rights from carbon dioxide pipelines?
“Since I was first elected four years ago, I have met with countless dedicated landowners at the capitol, in their communities, and on their farms (we do not have affected landowners in my county at this time). I have voted for bills that I felt would improve the situation for their fight, even when I felt that the proposals were flawed, but would still be an improvement. I have met with members of the lobby and expressed my consistent position.”

If elected, what are you willing to do to help landowners protect property rights from carbon dioxide pipelines?
“I will continue my consistent, clear position and actions.”

What are your biggest concerns about carbon dioxide pipelines and carbon capture?
“Carbon capture is not, inherintly, a bad idea. BUT, shipping CO2 out of state through pipelines that A) only exist because Iowans were cojoled, pressured, and forced into agreements so that incredibly wealthy individuals can capitalize on a federal tax credit; B) can rupture, leading to dangerous situations for humans, livestock, and other life; and C) may be used to increase fracture extraction of petroleum projects in others states, despite claims that these pipelines are for environmentally responsible energy (ethanol). I am very interested in the potential for geologic CO2 storage here in Iowa, but the will to investigate that possibility has been hampered by the efforts to adopt private pipelines criss-crossing our state.”

What makes you stronger on property rights and carbon pipelines than your opponent?
"My opponent has yet to put out any policy position or statement on this issue.”

Daniel Arch (NP)

Do you believe eminent domain should be used for carbon dioxide pipelines? Why or why not?
“No. CO2 pipelines are not a public good reason, therefore should not have eminent domain used to get them through.”

What have you done in the last 5 years to help landowners protect their property rights from carbon dioxide pipelines?
“Not much, as I am just a candidate. However I have filed an objection on the IUC.”

If elected, what are you willing to do to help landowners protect property rights from carbon dioxide pipelines?
“I would repeal any rights a private corporation would have to use eminent domain. I would restore your rights under the 5th amendment that only the federal and state governments can have the power to use eminent domain.”

What are your biggest concerns about carbon dioxide pipelines and carbon capture?
“It could lead to negative impacts on the environment and the ecosystem.”

What makes you stronger on property rights and carbon pipelines than your opponent?
"My opponent has voted in the past to repeal the eminent domain rights, however they have stated nothing about it this year.”

Iowa State House
(HD-91)

Judd Lawler (R)

Judd Lawler (R)

Do you believe eminent domain should be used for carbon dioxide pipelines? Why or why not?
“No. It's not public use. Utilities pump useful things out of the ground and transport them to homes and businesses for the entire public. These pipelines are designed to pump things deep underground where they are of no use to anyone.”

What have you done in the last 5 years to help landowners protect their property rights from carbon dioxide pipelines?
“Voted for and co-sponsored multiple bills to protect landowners vis-a-vis carbon dioxide pipelines. I am also a legislator-intervenor in litigation on this issue.”

If elected, what are you willing to do to help landowners protect property rights from carbon dioxide pipelines?
“Continue the work I'm already doing.”

What are your biggest concerns about carbon dioxide pipelines and carbon capture?
“My biggest concern is the use of eminent domain. I have no objection to voluntary easements.”

What makes you stronger on property rights and carbon pipelines than your opponent?
"Proven track record. In addition to the carbon pipeline work I've done, I've fought for property rights in other contexts, including introducing and passing a bill to protect the property rights of individuals who have obtained city approval for projects on their own property.”

Iowa State House
(HD-96)

Nick Salazar (D)

Nick Salazar (D)

Do you believe eminent domain should be used for carbon dioxide pipelines? Why or why not?
“No, private companies should NOT be able to force landowners to surrender their property for carbon dioxide pipelines or any private gain. Eminent domain is an extraordinary power that should be reserved for extraordinary circumstances that serve public good.”

What have you done in the last 5 years to help landowners protect their property rights from carbon dioxide pipelines?
“I have not personally been involved in the carbon dioxide proceedings, however, the work I have been involved in is related. For nearly two decades, my work has focused more broadly on organizing around communities, government accountability, and making sure people have a voice in decisions that affect them. The carbon pipeline debate and government overreach has reinforced the importance of these principles when landowners are up against large corporations and government processes.”

If elected, what are you willing to do to help landowners protect property rights from carbon dioxide pipelines?
“I would support legislation the prevents the use eminent domain for private carbon dioxide pipeline projects and strengthens protections for landowners. I would also support greater transparency and accountability regarding the permitting process while giving landowners the opportunity to challenge any projects affecting their property. The burden should be on the government, not landowners to defend why they should keep their property.”

What are your biggest concerns about carbon dioxide pipelines and carbon capture?
“My biggest concerns are property rights, public safety, environmental impacts, and who ultimately benefits at the end of the day. Projects like carbon capture should be evaluated based on its actual environmental benefits, costs, risks, and long-term effectiveness. The public should not be forced for carry the risks while large corporations and private interests receive the benefits.”

What makes you stronger on property rights and carbon pipelines than your opponent?
"I can only speak for my own position. That position is clear. I do not support using eminent domain to take private property for private carbon pipelines or any private gain. As your state representative, I will place that position into law and strengthen protections for landowners. If we really believe in property rights, then it has to mean something when those rights are challenged. ”

`

Iowa State Senate
(SD-3)

Lynn Evans (R)
Mike Frantz (D)

Lynn Evans (R)

Do you believe eminent domain should be used for carbon dioxide pipelines? Why or why not?
“No. It is a clear violation of a landowners Constitutional rights.”

What have you done in the last 5 years to help landowners protect their property rights from carbon dioxide pipelines?
“I am a member of the Legislative Intervenors suing the IUC. In the Iowa Senate, as a part of The Daunless Dozen, I refused to pass the state budget until a bill blocking the use of eminent domain for carbon capture pipelines was brought to the floor for a vote.”

If elected, what are you willing to do to help landowners protect property rights from carbon dioxide pipelines?
“I will continue to advance, support, and co-sign legislation blocking the use of eminent domain for carbon capture pipelines.”

What are your biggest concerns about carbon dioxide pipelines and carbon capture?
“If a breach occurs, the harm caused to human life and livestock. The use of tax credits to fund the project. The violation of landowners' Constitutional rights.”

What makes you stronger on property rights and carbon pipelines than your opponent?
"I have been in this fight for the past for years. My direct actions have helped prevent the project from moving forward.”

Mike Frantz (D)

Do you believe eminent domain should be used for carbon dioxide pipelines? Why or why not?
“No, private property is just that, private. No use without consent of the property owner.”

What have you done in the last 5 years to help landowners protect their property rights from carbon dioxide pipelines?
“Written legislators, attended public forums with legislators where this was a topic.”

If elected, what are you willing to do to help landowners protect property rights from carbon dioxide pipelines?
“Strengthen laws protecting private property rights.”

What are your biggest concerns about carbon dioxide pipelines and carbon capture?
“Environmental damage, lack of compensation to land owners when property is damaged.”

What makes you stronger on property rights and carbon pipelines than your opponent?
"My party will stand firmly with property owners while his will not.”

Iowa State Senate
(SD-7)

Kevin Alons (R)

Kevin Alons (R)

Do you believe eminent domain should be used for carbon dioxide pipelines? Why or why not?
“No, not constitutional.”

What have you done in the last 5 years to help landowners protect their property rights from carbon dioxide pipelines?
“Led the "dauntless dozen" in the senate.”

If elected, what are you willing to do to help landowners protect property rights from carbon dioxide pipelines?
“Continue fighting my own party leadership on this issue.”

What are your biggest concerns about carbon dioxide pipelines and carbon capture?
“Unconstitutional, dangerous and unjustified by science.”

What makes you stronger on property rights and carbon pipelines than your opponent?
"Unopposed.”

Iowa State Senate
(SD-9)

James Uhlenkamp (D)

James Uhlenkamp (D)

Do you believe eminent domain should be used for carbon dioxide pipelines? Why or why not?
“No. Eminent domain should be reserved for public projects with a clear and necessary public use. Private corporations or businesses should have no connection to using or profiting from property taken by eminent domain. Carbon capture does not even approach this bar. Private corporations are investing in carbon capture, not state governments.”

What have you done in the last 5 years to help landowners protect their property rights from carbon dioxide pipelines?
“Not much, I'll admit, beyond supporting Jan Norris' excellent advocacy.”

If elected, what are you willing to do to help landowners protect property rights from carbon dioxide pipelines?
“I will oppose any bills seeking to widen any eminent domain uses beyond solely public and unavoidable uses. Carbon dioxide is important, but it's not the only issue driving eminent domain.”

What are your biggest concerns about carbon dioxide pipelines and carbon capture?
“The cost/benefit is not solid enough, even without eminent domain. That debate encourages the dependency on fossil fuels.”

What makes you stronger on property rights and carbon pipelines than your opponent?
"I don't know Steve Baier's position, but to me, private property is sacred. Eminent domain should be tightly limited and very rare. That's capitalism: if you want my property, you must meet my price. If you must have my land, pony up and leave your government minions out of it.”

Iowa State Senate
(SD-17)

Samy El-Baroudi (D)

Samy El-Baroudi (D)

Do you believe eminent domain should be used for carbon dioxide pipelines? Why or why not?
“In general I am against the use of eminent domain for private firms. I believe that eminent domain should be used by government when the interests of society vastly outweigh the interests of the individual. I do recognize that I have a lot to learn about this particular issue and look forward to working with interested parties to find the best solution for Iowa.”

What have you done in the last 5 years to help landowners protect their property rights from carbon dioxide pipelines?
“I have been to rallies and events, but other than that I have not been very active on this issue.”

If elected, what are you willing to do to help landowners protect property rights from carbon dioxide pipelines?
“I believe that property rights are a benchmark of our economy and society. As stated above there must be overwhelming evidence that any legal action to take land from an owner must be in the best interest of society, and every effort must be made to resolve the issue prior to implementing eminent domain. This action should be reserved for what is best for society, not for corporate profits.”

What are your biggest concerns about carbon dioxide pipelines and carbon capture?
“The environmental impact if the pipeline is compromised. In addition the precedent of using eminent domain law to undermine landowners for the profit of others.”

What makes you stronger on property rights and carbon pipelines than your opponent?
"Private ownership is the foundation of our economy. As a 31 year veteran educator at the high school, college, and graduate level teaching Economics and other Business courses I have the knowledge and experience to recognize why undermining ownership rights damages all of us.”

Iowa State Senate
(SD-29)

Sandy Salmon (R)
Jim Vowels (D)

Sandy Salmon (R)

Do you believe eminent domain should be used for carbon dioxide pipelines? Why or why not?
“No, CO2 pipelines are not for public use and the constitution specifies that eminent domain can only be used for public use projects.”

What have you done in the last 5 years to help landowners protect their property rights from carbon dioxide pipelines?
“I have introduced bills supporting private property rights directed at this issue and supported others' bills and amendments of the same. I have helped get support among legislators for this legislation. I have spoken on the floor and in a number of public meetings on this issue and have written about it a number of times in my newsletter which goes out all across the state. I have advocated with Senate leadership regarding this issue and have stood against party leadership to bring this issue to the floor in 2025.”

If elected, what are you willing to do to help landowners protect property rights from carbon dioxide pipelines?
“I must keep doing the same things outlined above. This is a tough issue requiring continual pressure until the goal of protecting private property rights is finally achieved.”

What are your biggest concerns about carbon dioxide pipelines and carbon capture?
“The constitutional issue mentioned above is the first and most obvious one. Next, the fact that Iowa is an agricultural state and property rights must be protected for farmers to be willing to invest in their land. Much farmland has carefully patterned tiling drainage systems that this pipeline would greatly damage or totally ruin. Carbon capture pipeline companies are not public utilities nor common carriers which can use eminent domain. The "need" for carbon sequestration is ultimately based on climate change assertions which are highly debatable and therefore not a suitable foundation on which to build public policy regarding the use of eminent domain. The large usage of water necessary for carbon sequestration is also an issue where it has not been determined if it is too large a draw on our aquifers. The tendency to cut corners on constitutional rights to accommodate economic development is concerning. The pipeline companies themselves have admitted that were it not for federal financial incentives this project would not be economically feasible and so is this a wise use of taxpayer money?”

What makes you stronger on property rights and carbon pipelines than your opponent?
"I have had a record of strong sustained opposition and action in support of property rights regarding this issue and my opponent to the best of my knowledge has only perhaps a statement.”

Jim Vowels (D)

Do you believe eminent domain should be used for carbon dioxide pipelines? Why or why not?
“NO! Eminent domain should never be used for private gain.”

What have you done in the last 5 years to help landowners protect their property rights from carbon dioxide pipelines?
“I’m running for office in part to stop corporate greed, and I’ve submitted a letter of opposition to the IUB.”

If elected, what are you willing to do to help landowners protect property rights from carbon dioxide pipelines?
“Whatever it takes. This should be bipartisan. It’s what Iowans overwhelmingly want.”

What are your biggest concerns about carbon dioxide pipelines and carbon capture?
“Safety is my #1, but I really hate how underhanded this all seems to be. I’ve heard stories of bullying by pipeline executives and actually confronting a man in the nursing home about his land.”

What makes you stronger on property rights and carbon pipelines than your opponent?
"We share the same feelings.”

Iowa State Senate
(SD-35)

Mike Zimmer (D)

Mike Zimmer (D)

Do you believe eminent domain should be used for carbon dioxide pipelines? Why or why not?
“No, while over 60% of Iowa corn is used for ethanol, the CO2 pipeline is only happening due the 45Q incentives.”

What have you done in the last 5 years to help landowners protect their property rights from carbon dioxide pipelines?
“During the 2025 Legislative Session, I voted with Republicans to pass the bill prohibiting eminent domain for private gain. This is the bill Gov Reynold's vetoed.”

If elected, what are you willing to do to help landowners protect property rights from carbon dioxide pipelines?
“Both chambers can certainly try to resurrect the bill, but Summit is moving forward after Senator Klimesh prevented the bill from coming forward during the 2026 session.”

What are your biggest concerns about carbon dioxide pipelines and carbon capture?
“I'm not against the CO2 pipeline and am knowledgeable about the risks. I also believe that CO2 capture doesn't have to be viewed as a waste product. With additional processing, CO2 can used to cool data centers and many other uses.”

What makes you stronger on property rights and carbon pipelines than your opponent?
"I have no idea how my Republican opponent would vote. Considering that those Republican Senators who voted to prohibit eminent domain for the pipeline were stripped of committee assignments and removed from floor managing any bills, I'm guessing that if elected as a Freshmen, he would do what leadership tells him, but again I'm hypothesizing.”

Iowa State Senate
(SD-37)

Molly Donahue (D)

Molly Donahue (D)

Do you believe eminent domain should be used for carbon dioxide pipelines? Why or why not?
“No.”

What have you done in the last 5 years to help landowners protect their property rights from carbon dioxide pipelines?
“Prior to being a senator I work with Bobby Kaufmann the very first year and bill trying to get a 95% eminent domain requirement which ended up continually being dropped and then the Senate didn’t pass —and then I moved over to the Senate. I have worked with the “dirty dozen” or “12 disciples” to try to get them to put in an eminent domain Bill that only affects eminent domain —but also for all future businesses as well —because just doing it for the carbon pipeline means that we’d have to go back to do this every single time another company wants to come through with whatever new technologies emerge. I also tried to work with them on the fact that if they voted for every single thing that their Caucus wanted, that they had no leverage— so I was trying to get them to withhold their votes on key bills that their Caucus wanted to get a bill through.”

If elected, what are you willing to do to help landowners protect property rights from carbon dioxide pipelines?
“I am willing to vote for a eminent domain bill as long as it does not stop industry or economic development, but I do believe that land owners should have 100% say whether or not this is on their property and the company should definitely be paying more for those who choose to allow it. This is a multi billion dollar industry. There is no reason for farmers to lose out on profits when their land is being used.”

What are your biggest concerns about carbon dioxide pipelines and carbon capture?
“Personally, I wouldn’t want these anywhere near town school or homes for safety. And for Farmer, it shouldn’t be around livestock either.”

What makes you stronger on property rights and carbon pipelines than your opponent?
"I don’t believe my opponent has much to say about this.”

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BLACK HAWK COUNTY SUPERVISORS

Kamyar Enshayan (D)
Jeff Frost (R)

Kamyar Enshayan (D)

Do you believe eminent domain should be used for carbon dioxide pipelines? Why or why not?
“NO. For multiple reasons. 1) property rights, 2) EXTREME hazards, 3)ethanol and carbon pipelines do not and will not help our nation's energy problems. In short, carbon pipelines do not serve Iowans.”

What have you done in the last 5 years to help landowners protect their property rights from carbon dioxide pipelines?
“Most of my work is about transitioning away from fossil energy. Ethanol, and carbon pipeline do nothing towards true renewable energy: conservation, solar & wind.”

If elected, what are you willing to do to help landowners protect property rights from carbon dioxide pipelines?
“I will respond to public concerns, and will push against using eminent domain for private gain.”

What are your biggest concerns about carbon dioxide pipelines and carbon capture?
“It is totally about private fossil energy interests, not moving our state towards more renewable energy.”

What makes you stronger on property rights and carbon pipelines than your opponent?
"I am not sure who my opponent is, and it is not my concern, I am simply trying to serve my county.”

Jeff Frost (R)

Do you believe eminent domain should be used for carbon dioxide pipelines? Why or why not?
“I do NOT believe eminent domain should be used for carbon dioxide pipelines. To me this isn't about the Midwest Carbon Express, per se, but more about the rights of landowners. Private property rights are fundamental. Eminent domain is one of the most extraordinary powers government possesses, and extraordinary powers should be reserved for extraordinary circumstances. I support eminent domain when it is truly necessary to protect public safety or construct essential public infrastructure such as roads, bridges, water systems or flood protection, and when no reasonable alternative exists. I do not believe eminent domain should be used simply because it makes a private development easier or more profitable. A private company should first have to earn the consent of the people whose land it wants to use.”

What have you done in the last 5 years to help landowners protect their property rights from carbon dioxide pipelines?
“Having served on the city council for the city of Gilbertville, I did not have to deal with this issue. With that said, being a small, rural, agricultural community, we have done everything in our powers to secure and ensure the rights of farmers, including allowing large equipment to be moved through town for agricultural purposes, when other cities of our size have often limited or banned. I would like to think that we would have not allowed the carbon pipeline come through our community, or farms around it, if this would have been something that was proposed.”

If elected, what are you willing to do to help landowners protect property rights from carbon dioxide pipelines?
“If elected, I will be a strong and consistent voice for landowners and their private property rights. I believe the right to own property includes the right to say no when a private, for-profit company wants to use your land. I recognize that eminent domain has a legitimate purpose in rare circumstances involving true public necessity, such as roads, bridges, public water systems, flood protection, or critical public safety infrastructure. But it should be a power of last resort, not a negotiating tool for private enterprise. As a County Supervisor, I will use every lawful authority available to the county to protect landowners, insist that their concerns are heard, advocate for voluntary easements rather than forced acquisition, and oppose efforts to use eminent domain for carbon dioxide pipelines when the primary beneficiary is a private company. I will also work with our state legislators and other county officials to strengthen protections for property owners and ensure that decisions affecting our farmland, drainage, roads, public safety, and rural communities receive appropriate local scrutiny. I believe the burden should be on the company seeking access to private land to earn the landowner's agreement, not on the landowner to justify why they want to keep control of property they already own. My position is simple: Private property rights are fundamental. Eminent domain should be reserved for extraordinary circumstances of genuine public necessity. When a private company wants to cross your land, it should have to negotiate with you, not use the power of government to force you to accept.”

What are your biggest concerns about carbon dioxide pipelines and carbon capture?
“First and foremost is safety. Carbon dioxide is not flammable, but a major release can still be extremely dangerous. CO₂ is heavier than air and, at high concentrations, can displace oxygen, particularly in low-lying areas. We have already seen what can happen. In 2020, a CO₂ pipeline ruptured near Satartia, Mississippi, resulting in approximately two hundred people being evacuated and dozens seeking medical treatment. That incident was serious enough that the federal Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration subsequently moved to strengthen CO₂ pipeline safety standards. That leads directly to another concern: Are our local emergency responders adequately prepared? If we are going to place high-pressure CO₂ pipelines through rural Iowa, I want our firefighters, EMS personnel, law enforcement, and emergency management officials to know exactly what they are dealing with. They need appropriate training, detection equipment, emergency-response plans, and accurate information about where CO₂ could travel following a major release. Rural volunteer departments should not be expected to absorb those additional responsibilities and costs without adequate resources. I am also genuinely concerned about Iowa's farmland. Pipeline construction involves heavy equipment, excavation, removal and replacement of topsoil and disruption of agricultural drainage systems. Iowa State University research on pipeline construction in Iowa found significant soil compaction and reductions in crop yields within the construction right-of-way during the early years following construction. Iowa has some of the most productive agricultural soil in the world. Once that soil structure or drainage system is damaged, simply paying a landowner for a few years of crop loss does not necessarily make that farm whole. Another major concern is property rights. I have a difficult time accepting the idea that a private company should be able to use the government's power of eminent domain to force an easement across someone's farm simply because that project may provide an economic or environmental benefit. Eminent domain should be reserved for extraordinary circumstances involving genuine public necessity, not used as leverage in negotiations between a private company and a private landowner. Finally, I believe we need to ask a basic question about who receives the benefits and who assumes the risks. If carbon capture is economically viable and provides the benefits its supporters believe it will, then those benefits should be strong enough for companies to negotiate voluntary agreements with landowners. Individual farmers and rural residents should not be expected to disproportionately bear the risks, disruption and long-term consequences of a project designed to benefit a much larger enterprise. I am not opposed to new technology, innovation, ethanol, or finding responsible ways to reduce carbon emissions. But supporting innovation does not require us to abandon common sense or private property rights. Before we put a pipeline across someone's farm, I want to know that it is safe, that our emergency responders are prepared, that our agricultural land and drainage systems are protected, that taxpayers aren't left paying for consequences created by a private project, and most importantly, that the rights of the people who own the land are respected. For me, those are reasonable demands. They are the minimum protection I believe Iowa landowners and our rural communities deserve.”

What makes you stronger on property rights and carbon pipelines than your opponent?
"I don't know my opponent's position on this issue, so I won't attempt to speak for them. What I can tell you is what separates me and where I stand. I am a lifelong Black Hawk County resident, and my family's roots in rural Black Hawk County go back nearly 150 years. Our family acquired its farm during the Homestead era, and in September 1977, that land was recognized as an Iowa Century Farm. That history gives me a deep appreciation for what land ownership means to Iowa families. The Homestead Act reflected a fundamental American principle: putting land into the hands of ordinary citizens so they could own it, work it, raise families on it, and pass it to future generations. During the congressional debates of that era, Representative William Holman captured that principle in a simple statement: "Let us keep the plow in the hands of the owner." More than 160 years later, those words still matter. Our nation recognizes both private property rights and eminent domain, but they should not be equal starting points. Private ownership should be the rule. Forced taking should be an extraordinary exception. Eminent domain should be reserved for genuine and compelling public necessity, not simply because taking someone's property makes a private project easier or more economically advantageous. My family's history has taught me that land is more than acres on a map. It represents generations of work, sacrifice, stewardship, and family. I will always stand with our farmers and landowners and defend their private property rights. When it comes to eminent domain, I believe the burden should be on those who want to take someone's property, never on the landowner to explain why they deserve to keep it. Keep the plow in the hands of the owner. That's where I stand.”

Cerro Gordo COUNTY SUPERVISORS

Cody Williams (D)

Cody Williams (D)

Do you believe eminent domain should be used for carbon dioxide pipelines? Why or why not?
“No. I do not believe eminent domain should be used to take private property for a carbon dioxide pipeline. I have a pretty simple view of property rights: if it is your land, it is your land. A private company should not be able to use the power of government to force a landowner to give up an easement for a project they do not want. Eminent domain should be reserved for very limited situations involving a clear and necessary public use. I do not believe a privately developed carbon dioxide pipeline meets that standard. If a project cannot obtain the voluntary agreements it needs from landowners, I do not believe government should force those landowners to participate.”

What have you done in the last 5 years to help landowners protect their property rights from carbon dioxide pipelines?
“I want to be straightforward about this question. I have not held elected office during the last five years, and I am not going to exaggerate my involvement or claim that I have been on the front lines of this issue when I have not. What I have done is listen to the concerns of landowners and become increasingly concerned about the use of eminent domain for a privately developed pipeline. Running for county supervisor has also given me the opportunity to talk directly with rural residents about property rights and the impact decisions made by government can have on individual landowners. My position is clear today: landowners should not be forced to give up their property for a private carbon dioxide pipeline.”

If elected, what are you willing to do to help landowners protect property rights from carbon dioxide pipelines?
“As a county supervisor, I would use the authority available to the county to protect landowners and make sure their voices are heard. I would support reasonable county ordinances and regulations that protect public safety and property owners to the fullest extent legally available to the county. I would also advocate at the state level for stronger protections for landowners and against granting eminent-domain authority for privately developed carbon dioxide pipelines. Most importantly, I would listen to the people directly affected. County government should not simply stand on the sidelines when residents believe their property rights are being threatened. I will work with landowners, other county officials, legislators, and legal counsel to determine what actions the county can lawfully take and then be willing to take those actions.”

What are your biggest concerns about carbon dioxide pipelines and carbon capture?
“My biggest concern is property rights. Whatever someone thinks about carbon capture technology itself, we should be very cautious about allowing private companies to use eminent domain to obtain private land. I also have concerns about public safety, emergency response, long-term responsibility for these projects, and who ultimately bears the costs and risks if something goes wrong. Those questions deserve clear answers before communities and landowners are asked to accept a project. I am also concerned about creating a precedent. Once we decide that private economic-development projects can use eminent domain because someone argues that they provide a broader public benefit, it becomes much harder to draw the line on the next project. Carbon capture can be debated on its own merits, but that debate should not come at the expense of fundamental private-property rights.”

What makes you stronger on property rights and carbon pipelines than your opponent?
"I would not make this about attacking my opponent unless there is a clear difference in our records or positions. What I can tell voters is exactly where I stand: I oppose using eminent domain for privately developed carbon dioxide pipelines. My position starts with the landowner rather than the company developing the project. I believe private-property rights are fundamental, particularly in rural Iowa where land may have been in the same family for generations. I also bring a practical approach to county government. I am willing to listen, ask questions, work with legal counsel, and use the authority of the county where appropriate to protect the people I represent.”

Clay COUNTY SUPERVISORS

Sharon Johannsen (R)

Sharon Johannsen (R)

Do you believe eminent domain should be used for carbon dioxide pipelines? Why or why not?
“No. We need more education, research and information on how this is actually benefitting the general population. At this time there isn't enough evidence in my opinion that it truly is beneficial.”

What have you done in the last 5 years to help landowners protect their property rights from carbon dioxide pipelines?
“Educating myself on the benefits and downfalls of CO2 capture. Why it's being pushed so much right now and who is behind the corporations that are adamant that it's a benefit to the population.”

If elected, what are you willing to do to help landowners protect property rights from carbon dioxide pipelines?
“I would work to protect the property rights of Clay County landowners by making sure their voices are heard and concerns taken seriously when pipeline projects are proposed. The corporations involved need to be transparent and provide accurate information to landowners.”

What are your biggest concerns about carbon dioxide pipelines and carbon capture?
“At this time I feel it's a proposal that hasn't been researched enough to prove the benefits to our landowners and the general population. There are safety concerns I have along with property rights that need to be addressed.”

What makes you stronger on property rights and carbon pipelines than your opponent?
"NA”

Floyd COUNTY SUPERVISORS

Aaron Hobert (D)
Tyler Robbins (R)

Aaron Hobert (D)

Do you believe eminent domain should be used for carbon dioxide pipelines? Why or why not?
“No, private companies should not be allowed to use eminent domain to force the use of land against the landowner's will rather than negotiate fair prices direct with landowners.”

What have you done in the last 5 years to help landowners protect their property rights from carbon dioxide pipelines?
“I have encouraged our Iowa House and Senate members to ban the use of eminent domain for private companies.”

If elected, what are you willing to do to help landowners protect property rights from carbon dioxide pipelines?
“As a Supervisor I will push to pass county resolutions objecting to the use of eminent domain for carbon dioxide pipelines.”

What are your biggest concerns about carbon dioxide pipelines and carbon capture?
“Biggest concern is to make sure regulatory measures fully protect public safety.”

What makes you stronger on property rights and carbon pipelines than your opponent?
"Currently not aware of differences between us.”

Tyler Robbins (R)

Do you believe eminent domain should be used for carbon dioxide pipelines? Why or why not?
“I do NOT believe so. I admit to only a surface level understanding of the pipeline, but even with that level of understanding, I believe that this is a very grave thing that should be met with the utmost caution and scrutiny. I am completely against eminent domain, as I believe property is an ordained right as a divine gift of GOD. ”

What have you done in the last 5 years to help landowners protect their property rights from carbon dioxide pipelines?
“I have become involved in local politics, including becoming a delegate of our local Republican Party.”

If elected, what are you willing to do to help landowners protect property rights from carbon dioxide pipelines?
“I will do whatever I can in my power and understanding to do to protect the property rights of all in our county.”

What are your biggest concerns about carbon dioxide pipelines and carbon capture?
“My largest concern is the idea of forcing something upon people that they do not want. I do not wish to see people forced into something, as another of GOD's great gifts to mankind is choice.”

What makes you stronger on property rights and carbon pipelines than your opponent?
"I believe that forcings someone into something is wrong. I cannot speak to what my opponents will or won't say, but given that my family including my children live in our community I feel as though it is my job to protect them and our community for the future. Lastly, I would say that my positions are based in Scriptural beliefs, which makes them even stronger than just a fact I heard. Both can be true, but the Bible makes it clear that we have certain rights that must be upheld.”

Montgomery COUNTY SUPERVISORS

Jan Norris (D)

Jan Norris (D)

Do you believe eminent domain should be used for carbon dioxide pipelines? Why or why not?
“Eminent domain should not be used for CO2 pipelines. The spirit of eminent domain is that is be used for government projects (roads, bridges, etc) that benefit the general public. After studying the issue for over five years, I have not seen this threshold met. “

What have you done in the last 5 years to help landowners protect their property rights from carbon dioxide pipelines?
“It might be easier to define what I have NOT done. I have researched the topic to become educated, shared what I have learned with others by speaking at supervisor meetings, IUC meetings, writing letters to the editor, organizing landowners to inform them, participated in webinars, weekly zoom calls and daily reading. I have had conversations with experts, attorneys, other county officials, other landowners and organizers around the state & country. I have been a speaker for community groups and held multiple local meetings. I have made myself available to the media and been interviewed multiple times. I've lobbied legislators, visited the capitol often and spoken at hearings. I have advocated heavily for the creation of local ordinances and policies that would put residents and landowners first.”

If elected, what are you willing to do to help landowners protect property rights from carbon dioxide pipelines?
“I will continue to advocate for being proactive - doing all the county can to be in the best position possible to stand up for the rights of our people and best serve their needs. This will require action and talking to others doing the work, not just listening to industry. I will take my duty very seriously to "protect and preserve the rights, privileges, and property of the county or of its residents, and to preserve and improve the peace, safety, health, welfare, comfort, and convenience of its residents.”

What are your biggest concerns about carbon dioxide pipelines and carbon capture?
“First and foremost these projects are a boondoggle. The American taxpayer is going to be paying for private industry to profit from a tax scam. Little to no oversight is built in to any of the code so industry can write its own check. Safety has been glossed over. It is my belief from all the research I have done that the concentration of CO2 in the event of a rupture needs to be very carefully respected. It cannot be written off as the same as the fizz in our pop can, or less of a concern because its next to rural homes rather than a populated city. These first projects should be a wakeup call to Iowa and the nation for all other projects wanting precious farmland. The IUC granted Summit the use of eminent domain. That has taken the finger out of the dike leading to other projects wanting to claim public use and necessity. Local control is being threatened. Our local governments are going to have to stand up & fight to hold on to decision making authority over our own jurisdictions.”

What makes you stronger on property rights and carbon pipelines than your opponent?
"I have over five years of knowledge and expertise in this area. I have been involved from day one and have learned many lessons & created many valuable relationships to be in the best position possible to make informed decisions.”

Woodbury COUNTY SUPERVISORS

Daniel Bittinger II (R)

Daniel Bittinger II (R)

Do you believe eminent domain should be used for carbon dioxide pipelines? Why or why not?
“No.”

What have you done in the last 5 years to help landowners protect their property rights from carbon dioxide pipelines?
“Woodbury County has been a part of a multi-county lawsuit against the IUC.”

If elected, what are you willing to do to help landowners protect property rights from carbon dioxide pipelines?
“Yes.”

What are your biggest concerns about carbon dioxide pipelines and carbon capture?
“Government funded tax credits/subsidies which enrich companies by taxing citizens more; the safety issues of the pressure in the proposed lines and underhanded tactics to acquire land.”

What makes you stronger on property rights and carbon pipelines than your opponent?
"My belief is in limited government in all areas, not just when it is a populist issue, which means no eminent domain in the state of Iowa ever.”

Woodbury COUNTY Attorney

James D Loomis (R)

James D Loomis (R)

Do you believe eminent domain should be used for carbon dioxide pipelines? Why or why not?
“No. Eminent domain should never be used for a private project. Summit Carbon Solutions is not a common carrier and a carbon dioxide pipeline does not meet the legal standard of convenient and necessary. ”

What have you done in the last 5 years to help landowners protect their property rights from carbon dioxide pipelines?
“Advised the Woodbury County Board of Supervisors in joining with other counties in litigation against the IUC and he has been instrumental in helping the appropriate boards prepare to represent the citizens of Woodbury County with potential zoning issues related to pipelines. ”

If elected, what are you willing to do to help landowners protect property rights from carbon dioxide pipelines?
“James Loomis will do everything he can to protect the constitutional rights of Woodbury County and its citizens. This includes fighting against the overreach by the IUC.”

What are your biggest concerns about carbon dioxide pipelines and carbon capture?
“From a legal and private citizen's perspective, James Loomis is concerned about the constitutional concerns relating to the use of eminent domain for private gain. There are also safety concerns and potential hazards associated with this level of carbon dioxide going through Woodbury County and our State, which have not been adequately addressed.”

What makes you stronger on property rights and carbon pipelines than your opponent?
"James Loomis is a staunch defender of the Constitution and private property rights. He has a proven record of standing up for Woodbury County residents and working with the Board of Supervisors to protect the rights of landowners.”