The Webster County Republican Central Committee hosts the event each year and features several Republican office holders and candidates.

Kris Henderson, of Fort Dodge, began the evening by leading the crowd in prayer before they all stood to recite the Pledge of Allegiance.

Speakers this year included state Sen. Jesse Green, R-Harcourt; Secretary of State Paul Pate; a video message from U.S. Sen. Charles Grassley; and Reynolds.

Each office holder spoke about challenges Iowa is facing, goals they hope to achieve in the future, and thanked the attendees for their support.

-Messenger photo by Michaela Frerichs
Gov. Kim Reynolds, left, presents the first ever Tom Latham Award to Marilyn Raine, right, for distinguished service on behalf of the Webster County Republican Party.

Reynolds spent time until she took the stage meeting the attendees and answering questions. Green made a short speech before introducing and inviting Reynolds to the stage.

Reynolds began by thanking the crowd for attending before speaking about concerns she has for Iowa and the country. Reynolds discussed her visit to the southern border and her concerns with border security.

“I think what scares me the most is not only the smuggling of people and children, but the drugs that are coming across the border and it’s working its way to our communities,” she said.

Reynolds explained her dissatisfaction with the legislation coming from the national level such as inflation, fuel prices, pork and beef costs, and increased spending.

“These are really critical times in our country’s history. We have an administration that is fundamentally trying to change who we are as a country and those founding principles are under attack every single day,” said Reynolds. “We’re going to keep fighting the fight and keep working.”

-Messenger photo by Michaela Frerichs
Kris Henderson, widow of the late Rev. Al Henderson, led attendees in prayer at the annual Ken and Jane Rasch Chili Supper.

Reynolds said despite the issues the country is facing, she feels Iowa is still thriving.

“We have an opportunity to tell a different story in Iowa. We know that America is worth fighting for and we are fighting back in Iowa. I am so proud to be a governor that leads on life, liberty, freedom, and a constitution that protects it,” said Reynolds.

After Reynolds spoke, the Webster County Republican Central Committee and Reynolds presented the first ever Tom Latham Award to Marilyn Raine for distinguished service on behalf of the Webster County Republican Party.

Jim Oberhelman, chairman of the Webster County Republican Party said, “If anyone has been to an event where there’s a presidential candidate in Webster County, Marilyn has always been there and it’s great to have her so, thank you.”