I want to talk about an important issue that has come up a few times over the course of this campaign, one that matters to those who dedicate themselves to public service —and that issue is protecting the IPERS system. IPERS stands for Iowa Public Employees' Retirement System. Every two to four years as we approach an election, you hear that we want to “take your IPERS away.” It couldn’t be further from the truth. To those state and local government employees who care deeply about this issue, let me be crystal clear: Under my watch, your IPERS is safe. It will not change; it will be protected; and you will have the retirement you were promised. Period.