Feb 09
Tuesday
  • Joe Conner

    I have known Josh Thurston and his family most of his life. He grew up in a strong Christian home where he was taught to love the Lord, respect his family and others, and to honor his country. He went on to serve his country in Iraq. Since he came home, he has started a family, purchased a home, ... Read More

  • Christian Fong

    I could not be happier to see Josh Thurston represent Cedar Rapids. I have known Josh since he was hard-working teenager. Through wartime, faith and family life, he has become a man who looks out for his community. He actively participated with me in the visioning process of flood recovery, speak... Read More

  • Delores Miessner

    Joshua Thurston is a next door neighbor, a great friend - always ready to help, being I am an 85 yr. old widow. He is to be respected as a young husband, father and hope for the future.

    -Delores Miessner

    Read More
  • William Nissen

    Congrats on the State Representative opportunity. Josh is a man who has served this country with conviction and purpose both in the military and in his family life. I've known Josh since he was a child and know of his personal convictions, integrity and ability to overcome obstacles. This distric... Read More

  • Fred Meyers

    I have known Josh Thurston for several years as a neighbor. His generous nature is evident as he helps others in the neighborhood. He is a veteran and a family man. He will make and excellent Representative for House 33 because of his common sense. I strongly urge you to vote for Josh Thursto... Read More

Days to Election

About Josh Thurston

josh_bridgeMy Early Years

Like many children, I presented my mother with many challenges. Kids don't come with an instruction booklet. I made my share of mistakes like everyone has.  On September 11 2001, that all changed for me as I felt a calling to serve my country. I knew then as I know today, it was the right and honorable thing to do for me, for my family and for my country.

Serving our Country

I served four years in the US Army, with 1 Cavalry Division, stationed at Ft. Hood, TX. During that time, I was deployed to Iraq for 12 months. It was there that I realized what it meant to make sacrifices and stand for what is right.  The loss of my fallen brothers and sisters has given me a special appreciation for my life and the sacrifices they made for me and their country. I know firsthand what it takes to ensure ALL Americans, including those that disagree with me, to have the right and freedoms that this country was founded on. Not a day goes by, that I do not think about those that defend America's freedom and honor.

Commitment to Family

My wife Stephanie and I have made our home right here in Cedar Rapids. We are blessed with two beautiful children.

Floods and the Economy

Last year, the flood came to Cedar Rapids. This changed the lives of many, including my family directly. In the military, we are trained to never leave a fallen soldier behind. To this day, in Cedar Rapids there are many families still displaced and some without jobs, caused not only by the flood, but current economic conditions. We hear a lot of talk from Des Moines, but reality shows us that they are not interested in doing the business of the people. The people of Iowa need a voice, not just special interest groups.  Des Moines, it is time for you to listen and act. I will be there to make sure you do.

Just Like You

What you should know is I don't attend fancy parties or know all the "right" people. I don't have all the latest gadgets. I'm not interested in climbing a social ladder. I am the guy that protected you as a Transportation Security Officer at the Eastern Iowa Airport. I am the guy that lives and works on your side of town at Cargill West and am a member of the Local 238 Teamsters Union.

Why I Want to serve

Like many others that have served our country, I have many blessings in my life. Today, I see another opportunity to do the right thing by stepping up and once again serving in a different role. I am committed to serve my family, community and country by doing the hard work necessary to make a positive difference for the people of Cedar Rapids and the people of Iowa.

With your help, I will be a fresh voice, your voice for District 33!

 

Beliefs

  • Government should have a balanced budget
  • A transparent Government website is important for accountability
  • You know best how to spend, save and invest your paycheck

History

  • Born and raised in Cedar Rapids
  • Married to Stephanie
  • Two Children
  • US Army Veteran serving four years supporting the war on terrorism
  • Employed at Cargill West and a member of the Local 238 Teamsters Union