đź“Ł Meet the Candidate: A Conversation with Travis Terrell
Recently, our very own Stef sat down for an in-depth conversation with Travis Terrell—Democratic candidate and passionate advocate for working-class Iowans. This wasn’t just a campaign Q&A; it was a candid look into what drives him, where he stands, and how he hopes to serve. For those of us in Iowa looking for leaders who truly listen and lead with heart, this interview offers a window into the man behind the campaign. Here’s what he shared with us.
Background & Motivation
What in your personal history drives you to serve now—and why this race, in this moment?
Candidate Terrell draws motivation from his family and the challenges they’ve faced.
He watched his parents work hard their entire lives and still struggle to make ends meet. His mother worked as a custodian and tried to retire at 60 due to back pain. However, she couldn’t because the system denied her Social Security and healthcare—even after she had paid into it since the age of 16.
Now, at 70, she worries about becoming homeless because of proposed cuts. This pain deeply affects him. His whole family has experienced the injustice of our social systems, and that drives his commitment to change.
You’ve previously run in a district many consider “unwinnable” for Democrats. What keeps you coming back?
He wants to see families live and die with dignity.
Values & Vision
What does democracy mean to you today—and how do you plan to protect and advance it in this increasingly hostile political climate?
He wants to ensure that everyone has the right to vote.
To make that happen, he proposes a more user-friendly system that automatically registers people when they turn 18 through the Social Security system or the DMV.
In addition, he supports legislation that secures the legal right to peaceful protest. He refers to removing protest-related fees and ensuring that public space remains accessible for people to raise their voices.
How do you plan to balance progressive ideals with the conservative tilt of this district without losing core values?
Candidate Terrell believes the key lies in addressing the needs and fears of farmers and many “traditional” Republicans.
By doing so, he hopes to reassure people across the political spectrum that everyone has a beneficial place at the table. He believes we can build a system that works for all of us.
Accountability & Transparency
If elected, what mechanisms will you implement to ensure transparency and ongoing dialogue with constituents?
He encourages voters to visit his Facebook page and review a transparency-focused bill he shared there.
Moreover, he wants to keep communication open by hosting town hall meetings, responding to messages, and consistently asking for feedback.
What’s a political position you’ve held in the past that’s changed—and why?
This question wasn’t easy for him to answer right away. After some reflection, he mentioned his views on holidays and historic observances.
He initially didn’t recognize changes to statues and holidays as a major issue. However, the current administration’s efforts to reverse or politicize these designations changed his perspective. Now, he sees it as a problem that demands attention.
Campaign & Strategy
Your opponent has access to significant funding and institutional support. What is your strategy to counter this imbalance?
He plans to spend every possible moment going door to door and meeting people where they are.
Will your campaign take money from PACs or corporations—and what limits will you place on campaign financing?
He is not taking any money from PACs or corporations.
However, he remains open to possible union support, as long as it aligns with his values. He wants to avoid unwanted influences and stay connected to the people he serves.
Justice & Equity
How will your leadership protect marginalized communities in Iowa, particularly LGBTQ+ individuals and people of color?
“Lives should not be policy.”
He believes everyone should live their lives as they are. In addition, he calls for stronger federal protections for marginalized communities—policies that cannot be easily reversed or undermined.
Where do you stand on reproductive freedom, and what legislative moves would you back on a federal level?
He strongly supports the idea that all healthcare decisions—including reproductive healthcare—should remain between the provider and the individual.
According to Terrell, reproductive health must be “given back to the people” and fully protected from government control.
Personal Perspective
What keeps you grounded during a campaign cycle, and who are the people or ideas that keep you motivated?
Candidate Terrell says his mother and brother keep him grounded.
They currently work, or have worked, at Dr. Pepper / Everright in Ottumwa. These roots keep him focused on what matters.
He also emphasizes the importance of bringing union bargaining power back into the workplace. Workers deserve a livable wage and fair treatment.
What’s the most misunderstood thing about you—and what do you want voters to truly know?
He wants voters to understand that, although he’s running as a Democrat, he doesn’t believe in simply following the party line.
He isn’t in this to get rich. Instead, he plans to stay middle class and stay grounded. His goal is to reduce suffering, make a difference, and give a voice to families like his own.
Final Thoughts
Travis Terrell isn’t running for office to play politics—he’s running to make people’s lives better. Grounded by his family’s struggles and guided by a deep belief in fairness, transparency, and dignity, he offers a different kind of leadership: one that listens first and acts with purpose. Whether it’s protecting reproductive freedom, ensuring fair wages, or safeguarding democracy itself, Terrell’s vision is rooted in lived experience and a desire to serve.
As Iowans face mounting challenges, voices like his remind us that real change is still possible—if we’re willing to show up, speak out, and support candidates who reflect our values.
Interviewed by: Stef, Head Guerilla of SE Iowa