Iowa House Candidate Responds to Weight-Based Criticism

Iowa House candidate Benjamin Schauer addressed the backlash he faced regarding his weight on Saturday. He shared a detailed statement on Instagram, criticizing “an intense wave of online bullying and slander tactics centered around my weight.”

Schauer, an obese Democrat campaigning in western Iowa’s 15th Congressional District, believes the attacks aim to divert attention from significant issues like health care, education, and the economy. He reiterated his commitment to represent Dunlap and the nearby areas.

“A cheap shot like that is just that—cheap,” Schauer commented. “Such remarks add no value and certainly don’t contribute to a nation that urgently needs real leadership to address pressing problems.”

The ridicule began after users mocked his campaign videos and the slogan on his website, “The Iowa House is dirty…Give us Schauer!” This sparked a frenzy of memes on X and Instagram, with one user humorously suggesting, “We really need to bring back bullying,” while others commented on his candidacy for public office.

Schauer, who works as a music teacher and serves on the City Council, reflected on his decade of directing school events in Dunlap, stating that “absolutely nothing has changed” in that time.

“It only emphasizes that I’ve struggled with my weight my entire life—something many Americans can understand—and highlights the cruelty of those who mock others they consider ‘different,'” he added.

Supporters stood by him, with Schauer mentioning on Facebook that he had been “receiving some very nasty comments from online basement trolls.” One supporter noted that her followers were showing Schauer “some special love today.”

Screenshots from his campaign website indicated that the homepage’s text overlapped in a way that rendered the message “Strong Schools, Healthy Living, Proud Communities, and Powerful People” nearly unreadable.

Schauer wrapped up by saying, “This kind of banal bullying attempt only strengthens my resolve. My policy has not changed. I will run this race with the same passion for HD15 and the people of Iowa.”