DES MOINES, Iowa — The race to represent Des Moines' south side in the statehouse brings voters a rematch between the two opponents who ran last term.
Incumbent, Democrat Megan Srinivas and challenger, Republican Jerry Cheevers squared off in 2022 as well for Iowa House District 30.
Cheevers declined Local 5 News' interview request, but we spoke with Rep. Srinivas on Wednesday.
Srinivas is an infectious disease physician who works in healthcare the months that legislature is not in session.
And as someone who represents part of Des Moines currently, she's been vocal in opposition to the city's recent ban against homeless camping, and wants to do something about it, if re-elected.
"I am really concerned that what happened in Des Moines is going to open that door to having a bill presented in the statehouse," she said. "It was presented last year, it didn't come to a floor vote, but I am worried that this could be a slippery slope that could potentially open up the doors to something that could be really disastrous for our community members."
In the statehouse, Rep. Srinivas says she's fought for: promoting the public school system, advocating for reproductive rights and lowering health care costs.
She mentioned that "We have been under-funding so many clinics and hospitals in Iowa, including dental clinics when the cost of care is not even covered by the Medicaid reimbursement payout. Physicians, nurses, dentists, they can't continue to exist."
Srinivas is on five committees in the state legislature, and was appointed by Gov. Vilsack to serve as the first student representative on the Iowa State Board of Education.