In the News
Legislative Initiatives & Public Forums
Quad City Times Editorial, “Another Republican Slight of Hand:” In the Wednesday, June 11th edition of the Quad City Times, Croken shares perspective on Republican plans to nationally cut Medicaid funding.
Minimum Wage Legislation: In January 2025, Croken proposed a bill to incrementally raise Iowa's minimum wage to $15 per hour by 2027, addressing the state's stagnant wage levels since 2008.
Long-Term Care Insurance Reform: Motivated by personal experience, Croken hosted a public forum in September 2024 to discuss issues with long-term care insurance policies, aiming to inform potential legislative action.
School Voucher Opposition: Croken has been vocal against diverting public funds to private schools, arguing that such measures undermine public education.
Environmental Health Concerns: In February 2025, he organized a forum addressing Iowa's high cancer rates, linking them to water contaminants like nitrates and PFAS, and advocating for improved water quality measures.
Gun Violence and School Safety: Following a tragic school shooting in Perry, Iowa, Croken convened a forum in January 2024 to discuss school safety and gun control, featuring various stakeholders including educators and advocacy groups.
Interview on Key Issues: In October 2024, Croken discussed topics such as school vouchers, abortion rights, and civil liberties in an interview with WVIK News, outlining his legislative priorities and values .
Critique of 'Chemtrails' Legislation: In February 2025, Croken was the sole dissenting voice in a subcommittee hearing on a bill proposing a ban on weather modification practices, citing a lack of scientific evidence .