Incumbent Michael L. Fitzgerald (D) and Roby Smith (R) are running for Iowa treasurer on Nov. 8, 2022.
Fitzgerald has served as Iowa treasurer of state since 1983. Before taking office, Fitzgerald worked as a marketing analyst for Massey Ferguson Company. Fitzgerald said, “In times like today, there is no question that experience counts. Through my leadership, I will continue to promote fair government and safe financial strategies.”
Smith has represented Iowa Senate District 47 since 2011. Smith also worked as a banker and small business owner. According to his campaign website, Smith has “never missed a single vote from the floor of the Iowa Senate in eleven years” and “will bring that same dedication and work ethic to the State Treasurer’s office, where he will show up every day ready to work for Iowa’s taxpayers.”
The Iowa Capital Dispatch‘s Kate Kealy said, “If elected as state treasurer, former Republican state Sen. Roby Smith would use the position to prevent federal overreach and ensure Iowa tax dollars don’t aid terrorist organizations, his campaign states. Democratic incumbent Michael Fitzgerald said he hopes to continue building on programs he implemented during his time as the longest-serving state treasurer in the nation.”
Fitzgerald said Iowa should establish a state retirement program for Iowans with no retirement plans through their employer and said the state should protect state pension funds. “With half the people in Iowa approaching retirement age with no pension or retirement benefits, I think it’s a serious problem,” Fitzgerald said. In September 2022, Fitzgerald also announced a $10 million investment in Israel Bonds through the Development Corporation for Israel.
Smith emphasized financial privacy, saying, “Iowa needs a treasurer who understands the challenges of the 21st century and is willing to protect Iowans from a Biden administration that is determined to invade our financial privacy.” Smith also highlighted his support of tax reforms and financial literacy programs while a member of the Iowa Senate.
In the 2018 election, Fitzgerald defeated Jeremy Davis (R) with 55%-43%.
The Iowa treasurer is the state’s chief financial officer. The treasurer is elected to serve a four-year term concurrent with the governor’s term. The Iowa Treasurer’s Office maintains state funds and acts as the state’s bank. The main duties of the office include receiving and distributing state funds, investing state money, maintaining state accounts, and coordinating financial planning.
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