New Congressional Caucus Launched to Position Midwest for Strategic Federal Investment
Bipartisan effort will promote economic growth, innovation, and connectivity in
Missouri, Iowa, Nebraska, and Kansas
September 24, 2024 – Last week marked the formal launch of the Midwest Crossroads Congressional Caucus, a bipartisan initiative aimed at strengthening the competitive edge of the Midwest. Comprised of the U.S. House Representatives in the states of Missouri, Iowa, Kansas, and Nebraska, this bipartisan caucus is co-chaired by Representative Emanuel Cleaver (MO-5) and Representative Zach Nunn (IA-3). The Midwest Crossroads Caucus will focus on addressing regional issues and championing initiatives that promote economic growth, innovation, and connectivity in the Heartland.
The Midwest Crossroads Caucus comes at a pivotal time when the region is undergoing significant changes in population and industry but is uniquely positioned with a rich base of resources and is strategically located at the crossroads of intercontinental flows of people, goods, and ideas.
The formation of this caucus underscores the commitment of both parties to work together and harness the region’s economic potential. Membership is open to all 19 members of the four-state delegation, and includes Representatives Sam Graves (MO-6), Don Bacon (NE-2), Sharice Davids (KS-3), Randy Feenstra (IA-4), Mike Flood (NE-1), and Jake LaTurner (KS-2).
“In the Heartland, we make sure to look out for one another because we know that supporting our neighbors leads to better outcomes for the entire neighborhood,” said Congressman Cleaver. “For those of us who are blessed to call the Midwest home, we know the tremendous potential that exudes from our communities, our workforce, and our natural resources—but we don’t always receive the same attention in Congress that is commensurate with our impact on the nation. I’m proud to join Congressman Nunn in creating the Midwest Crossroads Caucus as a tool to prioritize the needs of our collective communities and influence decision-making in the People’s House for the benefit of all Midwesterners."
“The Heartland is one of the best places to start a business, grow a family, or settle down,” said Congressman Nunn. “I’m excited to work with members across our region as co-chair of the new Midwest Crossroads Congressional Caucus to champion policies that put our communities first. So many in Congress forget about our area of the country, brushing us off as ‘flyover states’ – but we won’t stand for that anymore. This caucus will provide a platform to harness our collective strength, drive innovation, and secure a brighter future for the Heartland."
The Midwest Crossroads Caucus was advocated for and endorsed by the Heartland Civic Collaborative, an initiative of the Civic Council of Greater Kansas City, the Des Moines Partnership, Greater St. Louis Inc, Greater Omaha Chamber, and the Greater Kansas City Chamber of Commerce. This collaborative effort brings together key stakeholders in the region to promote economic development, infrastructure investment, and workforce development.
Members of the Heartland Civic Collaborative hosted an event in Washington DC in recognition of the Midwest Crossroads Caucus and the commitment of its leaders to advancing the region.
Bill Berkley, Chair of the Heartland Civic Collaborative, stated, “The Heartland Civic Collaborative (HCC) is committed to supporting the Midwest Crossroads Caucus which establishes an additional pathway for advancing the priorities of our region. Our four cities have collaborated through the HCC for years and built a foundation of trust. This caucus is an extension of those relationships and further enhances our alignment. In partnership with our Congressional leaders, we are excited to continue to create opportunities that advance our region’s competitive edge in the national and global economy.”
The Midwest Crossroads Caucus will work collaboratively and across party lines to advocate for the region’s economic growth and prosperity.