For those who weren’t among the hundreds gathered inside the bustling Ex-Guard Industries warehouse yesterday, the atmosphere in Des Moines felt less like a standard political stop and more like a high-energy celebration of the “Heartland Comeback.” Flanked by the massive cabs of 18-wheelers, Vice President JD Vance joined Congressman Zach Nunn to mark a significant turning point in Iowa’s manufacturing landscape—one fueled by “Made In Iowa” grit and strategic tax policy.
The event at Ex-Guard, a premier manufacturer of semi-truck grille guards, served as the perfect backdrop to showcase the tangible results of the Working Families Tax Cuts. Across the state, those results are being measured in steel and concrete:
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Vermeer Corporation: A massive $102 million state-of-the-art facility in Bondurant is currently under development, set to bring over 300 high-skilled jobs to the region.
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Robinson Inc.: The custom metal manufacturer is moving forward with a $72 million expansion near Altoona, diversifying the local economy by creating 100 new manufacturing jobs.
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International Paper: Waterloo is now slated to become home to the largest corrugated plant in the United States, a project expected to employ hundreds of Iowans upon completion later this year.
During his remarks, Vice President Vance didn’t just talk policy; he spoke to the character of the man representing the district. Vance highlighted Nunn’s reputation as a leader who prioritizes the work over the optics.
“This is a contest between a party that wants to take all of your money… and a contest between gentlemen like Zach Nunn who fight every single day for you,” Vance told the crowd. He specifically praised Nunn’s integrity, noting that he is “one of those guys who does the right thing, not just when the cameras are on, but when they’re off too.”
More Than Just Manufacturing
The news wasn’t just about factory floors. For the average Iowan, the Republican-led tax framework has delivered a 15% increase in tax refunds, putting an average of $3,365 back into household budgets.
Beyond the wallet, the report from yesterday’s visit touched on Nunn’s legislative “heavy lifting” in Washington. This includes securing $209 million to revitalize rural healthcare infrastructure and successfully championing 21 distinct priorities in the recently passed 2026 Farm Bill—from expanding rural broadband to strengthening the farm safety net for the next generation of producers.
Delivering for the Heartland
The sentiment was echoed by NRCC Spokeswoman Emily Tuttle:
“Vice President Vance said it best: Zach Nunn is a fighter. As a combat veteran, Nunn has a proven track record, and in Congress, he’s delivered real results: lower taxes, stronger communities, and a government that actually works for Iowa families.”
Closing out the day, Iowa GOP Chair Jeff Kaufmann emphasized that the visit signals a long-term commitment to the state’s workers and rural communities.
“Vice President JD Vance’s visit to Iowa makes one thing clear: this administration hasn’t forgotten the people who keep this country running,” Kaufmann said. “Iowans are already seeing the results, from tax relief for working families, including no tax on overtime and tips, to a renewed focus on American manufacturing and jobs. For years, Democrats left rural America behind. Now, with President Trump and Vice President Vance leading, that’s changing. And while Democrats keep trying to block progress, Iowans know exactly who’s delivering and who’s standing in the way.”
