The Iowa Standard reached out to all federal and state legislative candidates to find out where they stand on the idea of defunding police and abolishing both the police and prisons. This idea is supported by Des Moines Black Lives Matter.
Republican State Sen. Jake Chapman is being challenged by Democrat Warren Varley. Both candidates responded.
Sen. Chapman’s response: “I will never support defunding law enforcement. I will always defend our brave men and women who serve and protect.”
Varley’s response: “To your question — do you support the idea of police and prison abolition? No and no. I have had (God rest their souls) and continue to have many fine friends in law enforcement. I consider the members of law enforcement to be essential, front-line workers and believe they should be treated like the professionals that they are. Now is the time to search for common ground rather than fomenting division.”