Mitt Romney’s running a campaign ad claiming Iowans are worse off since President Obama took office and “his plan” would add 170,000 Iowa jobs. By every economic indicator, Iowa is better off financially than when Obama took office on Jan. 20, 2009.

According to Iowa Workforce Development, Iowa’s January 2009 unemployment rate was 6.1 percent; as of Aug. 17, 2012, it’s down to 5.3 percent. I don’t know about Romney but I think Iowa’s better off with a lower rate!

The economic turnaround for business has been even better. The Dow Jones, Nasdaq, and S&P stock exchange values have all almost doubled since Obama took office. This is not only good for U.S. businesses, but for everyone with a 401(k), college fund, or pension.

Not only does the actual economic data prove Iowa’s economic condition has improved during Obama’s first term, but Romney does not have an “actual plan” to grow jobs and decrease the deficit.

Even the Wall Street Journal has criticized Romney’s failure to provide any details on his “magical plan” to lower the deficit and create jobs. Iowans deserve a candidate who is upfront and honest. Romney has failed in both counts.

Sara Riley

Cedar Rapids