Congressman Zach Nunn says Memorial Day is a time to remember the sacrifices made by service members and Gold Star families, while also focusing on the policies he says are helping Americans at home.
Speaking near the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington, Nunn reflected on honoring those who gave their lives in service to the country. The Iowa Republican, a 20-year combat veteran and Air Force colonel, said the weekend carries personal meaning after serving alongside units connected to soldiers lost overseas, including members of Iowa's National Guard.
“We watched the wall, we remembered the men and women who gave the ultimate sacrifice,†Nunn said. “So this Memorial Day weekend, all Americans could experience this level of freedom that we're privileged to have today.â€
Nunn also highlighted bipartisan cooperation among veterans serving in Congress, pointing to the “For Country Caucus,†a bipartisan group of lawmakers with military backgrounds. He said his first piece of legislation passed with support from both Republicans and Democrats, arguing that military service often creates a mindset focused on accomplishing missions rather than political divisions.
“If we've been able to serve in foxholes together, be wingmen together, serve on the same ships together, this is a reality in Washington,†Nunn said. “We should be working together for the American people.â€
The congressman also discussed energy policy and recent efforts to expand year-round E15 ethanol sales. Nunn said the fuel blend could help lower costs at the pump while supporting domestic energy production.
According to Nunn, E15 could reduce gasoline prices by as much as 50 cents per gallon, while also reducing dependence on foreign oil.
“Every dollar that we save at the pump is a dollar back in Americans' pockets,†he said. “Every gallon of gas blended with E15 is a gallon that's not blended with foreign oil.â€
The comments come as Republicans celebrate a series of primary victories by Trump-backed candidates across the country. Former Congressman Thomas Massie's loss to Trump-backed challenger Ed Gallrein in Kentucky marked one of the highest-profile races of the night.
Nunn praised Gallrein, a former Navy SEAL, describing him as “mission-focused†and saying he hopes to see lawmakers who are focused on delivering results rather than politics.
“I want warriors who are going to be with us in this fight to help serve this country,†Nunn said.
Nunn, who is running unopposed this cycle, also addressed the contrast between his campaign and criticism aimed at his Democratic challenger over resurfaced comments related to race and religion. Nunn argued voters are looking for unity and practical solutions rather than division.
“We want to be working on solutions that truly drive our nation forward,†he said. “That's not who I am as a dad, as a commander, as a congressman for Iowa.â€
Nunn said he remains confident Republicans will hold the seat and maintain their majority heading into the midterms, while continuing to focus on economic issues, border security, and public safety.
