One of the most rewarding parts of our work isn’t always the research we publish or the interviews we give. Sometimes it’s the opportunity to be in front of fellow Iowans and have thoughtful conversations about the ideas that have shaped our country and continue to influence public policy today.
This week gave us one of those opportunities.
ITR Foundation’s Policy Director, John Hendrickson, was invited to speak at a gathering in Urbandale on “Reformed Theology and the American Founding,” a presentation exploring one of the lesser-known influences on America’s constitutional development. The discussion examined the historical argument that thinkers such as John Calvin, along with the broader Reformed tradition, helped shape ideas including limited government, checks and balances, federalism, separation of powers, and the rule of law, all principles that ultimately found their way into the American experiment.
Whether discussing the writings of Calvin, the Puritans and Presbyterians in colonial America, or the debates surrounding the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution, John’s presentation encouraged attendees to think more deeply about the many intellectual and religious currents that contributed to the nation’s founding. Like much of history, the subject is nuanced, and it sparked thoughtful questions and lively discussion from those in attendance.
For us, though, the presentation represented something even broader.
Much of our work naturally revolves around research, writing, interviews with the media, conversations with legislators, and discussions with government officials. Those are all important parts of advancing good public policy. But they are not the only part.
Some of our favorite moments happen when we have the opportunity to leave the office, step away from our keyboards, and spend time with Iowans in their own communities. These gatherings aren’t about television sound bites or legislative strategy. They’re opportunities to listen as much as we speak, answer questions, hear different perspectives, and engage in conversations that often go well beyond the topic listed on the agenda.
We’re grateful whenever we are invited to share our research and perspective. These invitations remind us that there is a genuine appetite for thoughtful discussion about history, government, economics, taxation, and the principles that continue to shape our republic.
Those conversations also make us better at what we do, and they don’t always take place with an elected official. They help us understand the questions real Iowans are asking, the concerns they have, and the issues they believe deserve greater attention. That feedback ultimately makes our research more relevant and our advocacy more grounded.
At the end of the day, good public policy begins with informed citizens. If our work can help foster respectful conversations about America’s founding principles, or any contemporary issue affecting Iowa taxpayers, we’re always grateful for the opportunity to be part of that discussion.
In fact, we’re looking forward to the next invitation, so please reach out to us if you’d like someone from our team to visit your community.
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