Former Florida Governor Jeb Bush was keynote speaker at last night’s Siouxland Chamber of Commerce dinner in Sioux City. Bush’s message included a four-point proposal he says would help America begin an economic resurgence, including creating a patriotic energy policy focusing on domestic resources.

The two-term Florida governor also said America needs an immigration policy that focuses on economic growth. One example of that involves allowing exchange students obtaining college degrees to stay in America and put their knowledge to use here. He also called for a reduction in government rules and regulations he says is smothering business creation and called for a sunset review of those rules every decade.

Finally, Bush called for an overhaul of the country’s educational system including implementing teacher pay based on merit and student achievement and an elimination of collective bargaining. Bush took a few questions from the audience, including one regarding his future political aspirations.

He replied by saying he is a strong backer of Mitt Romney and hopes to work to get him re-elected in 2016.

By Woody Gottburg, KSCJ, Sioux City