LE MARS, Iowa (KTIV) – Iowa’s oldest U.S. Senator Chuck Grassley made Siouxland his final stop on this year’s 99-county tour, his 44th since taking office.

Tuesday afternoon he traveled to Rock Rapids, Sioux Center, Le Mars and Sioux City.

At SmithCo Manufacturing Incorporated in Le Mars, Grassley said most employees came to the meeting and asked him questions.

Grassley said he believes it is important to make time for his constituents who cannot stay away from work by meeting with them at their workplace to gain a comprehensive understanding of the concerns of Iowans.

“Bigger problems are the farm bill, prescription drug prices, food costs and the fact that the president is keeping the borders open and letting 8 to 10 million people into the country,” Grassley said.

The last stop on Senator Grassley’s 99-county tour was the Novelty Machine and Supply Company in Sioux City. Members of the Siouxland Chamber of Commerce and other local businesses met with employees there to ask the Senator questions on other local issues.

“I think at this point in his career, as he continues to talk to voters and listen to their concerns and questions and comments, he’s just taking that and translating it to everyone involved and influencing some of his decisions,” said John Olson, president of Novelty Machine and Supply Co.

Grassley will present what he heard Tuesday to the Senate, which reconvenes on September 9.

All rights reserved.