Co-Chairs

Claudia Koch

I was raised in a fiercely democratic family in the small town of Newfield in southern New Jersey. An early memory for me was going to the town hall on election night to watch the counting of ballots as my father served first as a councilman and later the mayor of our town.

College took me to the state of Illinois where I first earned a BA in Education and later an MS also in Education. I married, raised two girls and taught school in Illinois for 20 years until my husband’s work in the field of animal biologics brought the family to Fort Dodge, Iowa in 1991.

I soon discovered the wonders of the Iowa political scene. Attending the Iowa Caucus for the first time was a window to a new world. As a teacher in the West Bend-Mallard School District I became active in the ISEA, serving as chief negotiator, along with several offices in the local association. I also served on several statewide committees. Through my activity in the ISEA I was able to meet and talk to several candidates pushing me to become more active in politics.

On retiring from teaching in 2010, I looked for ways to have a voice in elections. I first volunteered to help with President Obama’s reelection campaign. In 2012, I joined the Webster County Central Committee trying to help in whatever role was needed. In 2014 I became Vice Chair of the Webster County Democrats, a position I held until recently.

I am proud of the work that has been accomplish by our county party. It is extremely rewarding to see the party grow. With that, I extend an invitation to all democrats that wish to find their niche in party activities to reach out. There is a place for you and we have much to accomplish!

Amber Rouse

I had an early introduction to the Iowa democrats; helping a family friend get elected to the Iowa Senate was one of my first memories. I also remember listening to my parents debate candidates. I loved discussing platforms of the different political groups in government class. I joined the Young Democrats in Palo Alto County. 

Then I became a teacher, teaching English, drama, and speech in both Colorado and Iowa. Currently I teach in Fort Dodge. During this time, my political activism lolled. This was partly due to the time consuming nature of teaching and coaching, but I also worried that my activism in politics may unduly influence my students. I still worked behind scenes, doing calling for the party, but I remained in the background.

However then, they came after my books and reproductive rights. When such basic rights are under attack, I could no longer take a backseat. I joined the Webster County Central Committee, volunteering whenever possible. Soon I found myself Co-chair of the Webster County Democrats.

I am excited to get to work with the Webster County Democrats. I know if we work together we can make a difference. I want to encourage you to join us.  Together our voices are stronger and we can make a difference.