She powerfully combines a real-life understanding of the issues that face Iowans with a long record of experience in the legislative and executive branches. And make no mistake, as a Democrat who has won election four times in the last 15 years - including legislative victories in a tough district and two strong statewide victories as the first woman elected to her office - Patty knows how to speak to all Iowans, from all walks of life and all parts of the state.