David Young

David Young is an American politician who currently serves as a member of the Iowa House of Representatives, representing the 28th district. A member of the Republican Party, Young has a notable political background, having previously served as a U.S. representative for Iowa's 3rd congressional district from 2015 to 2019. He is a resident of Van Meter, a suburb located to the west of Des Moines, Iowa. Young's political career has included various roles and responsibilities, reflecting his engagement with both state and national issues.

Early life and career

David Young was born on May 11, 1968, in Des Moines, Iowa. He grew up in Van Meter, where he developed an early interest in politics and public service. Young pursued higher education at Drake University, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in English. This educational background provided him with a foundation in communication, which would later serve him well in his political career.

Following his graduation, Young began his professional journey in politics as a legislative assistant to Colorado Senator Hank Brown from 1993 to 1996. This role allowed him to gain firsthand experience in the legislative process and understand the intricacies of governance. After his time in Colorado, he moved to Kentucky, where he served as the chief of staff to Senator Jim Bunning from 1998 to 2006. This position further honed his administrative and leadership skills, as he was responsible for managing the senator's office and coordinating various legislative initiatives.

In 2006, Young returned to Iowa to work as the chief of staff for Senator Chuck Grassley, a prominent figure in Iowa politics. His tenure with Grassley lasted until 2013, during which he played a significant role in shaping policy and legislation at the federal level. Young's extensive experience in these roles laid the groundwork for his later electoral successes and provided him with a deep understanding of both state and national political landscapes.

Legislative service

David Young's political career took a significant turn when he ran for the U.S. House of Representatives in 2014. The Republican nomination for Iowa's 3rd congressional district was determined through a convention, as none of the candidates achieved the required threshold of 35 percent of the vote in the primary. Young's candidacy was marked by a competitive atmosphere, and he ultimately secured the nomination on the fifth ballot of the convention. His victory was described as a surprising upset, highlighting his ability to rally support among delegates.

In the general election of 2014, Young faced Democrat Staci Appel and won with a margin of 53 percent to 42 percent. His victory marked the beginning of his tenure in the U.S. House, where he was sworn into office on January 3, 2015. During his time in Congress, Young was a member of the Republican Main Street Partnership and the Veterinary Medicine Caucus, participating in various committees that addressed critical issues.

In 2016, Young sought reelection and successfully defeated Joe Grandanette in the Republican primary. He then faced Democrat Jim Mowrer in the general election, where he again emerged victorious, receiving 54 percent of the vote. However, his political fortunes shifted in 2018 when he lost his reelection bid to Democrat Cindy Axne. Despite winning 15 of the district's 16 counties, Young was unable to overcome a significant deficit in Polk County, the most populous area in the district.

Following his defeat, Young attempted to reclaim his congressional seat in 2020 but was again unsuccessful against Axne, receiving 48 percent of the vote compared to her 49 percent. After a brief hiatus from federal office, Young returned to state politics and announced his candidacy for the Iowa House of Representatives in 2022. He won the election and officially took his seat on January 9, 2023. Young was subsequently reelected in 2024 and is expected to serve through the end of the 2026 legislative session, with plans to seek reelection in the upcoming general election.

Policy focus and district

Throughout his political career, David Young has focused on a range of policy issues that reflect his Republican values and the interests of his constituents. His legislative priorities have included veterans' affairs, healthcare, tax reform, and housing initiatives. Young has been particularly active in advocating for veterans, sponsoring the "No Veterans Crisis Line Call Should Go Unanswered Act," which aimed to address the alarming rates of suicide among veterans. This legislation received unanimous support in the U.S. House, underscoring the importance of mental health resources for those who have served in the military.

In terms of healthcare, Young's record includes votes to repeal the Affordable Care Act (ACA), commonly known as Obamacare. He expressed support for various Republican efforts to dismantle the ACA, although he also called for a thoughtful approach to healthcare reform that would ensure accessibility and affordability for all Americans. His involvement in healthcare policy reflects a broader Republican agenda focused on reducing government involvement in the healthcare sector.

Young's stance on tax reform has been consistent with his party's platform. He has supported measures aimed at simplifying the tax code and reducing tax burdens on individuals and businesses. His advocacy for tax reform aligns with the Republican emphasis on stimulating economic growth through lower taxes.

In the Iowa House of Representatives, Young represents the 28th district, which encompasses parts of Dallas County, including several western suburbs of Des Moines. His district is characterized by a mix of urban and suburban communities, and Young's legislative efforts are likely influenced by the diverse needs of his constituents. As a state legislator, he has the opportunity to address local issues while also contributing to broader state policies.

Young's political career has been marked by a commitment to public service and engagement with the community. His experiences in both state and federal government have equipped him with the skills necessary to navigate complex legislative challenges. As he continues to serve in the Iowa House of Representatives, Young remains focused on representing the interests of his district and advocating for policies that align with his constituents' values.