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People Are Puzzled By Iowa Governor's Decision To Ask Official To Resign After He Sent An Email About Tupac's Birthday

People Are Puzzled By Iowa Governor's Decision To Ask Official To Resign After He Sent An Email About Tupac's Birthday
Iowa.gov/Time Life Pictures/Contributor/Getty Images

Jerry Foxhoven, former head of Iowa's Department of Human Services (DHS), was asked to resign his position in June.

This request came shortly after Foxhoven sent an organization-wide email celebrating Father's Day and Tupac's birthday, which happened to be on the same day.


The email included the quote:

"Pay no mind to those who talk behind your back, it simply means that you are 2 steps ahead."

The email also celebrated that the day would mark Jerry's second full year as DHS director.

Unfortunately, when Jerry returned to work the following Monday, he was suddenly asked to resign his position.

Foxhoven has a history of sharing his love for Tupac's music and his message. Another of his emails included the incredibly relevant quote:

"It's time for us as a people to start makin' some changes."

According to emails obtained via a Freedom of Information Act request by Tim Mak which were shared on Twitter, Jerry's emails were often well received.

Another staffer named Yvonne responded:

"Great to be on a team of people who care!"

Not all of those working under Jerry appreciated his enthusiasm for Tupac, however.


The internet is largely confused by Jerry's forced resignation.

Most seem to think he seems like a great guy who was just trying to spread a little inspiration using quotes from his favorite lyricist.

Many on Twitter appreciated Jerry's message of love, and his love of Tupac.




Some wished him a speedy job hunt and hoped he would find a workplace that appreciated his love of Tupac.


Others expressed sympathy and support for Jerry.

There was also much criticism of Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds, who will not confirm or deny whether she asked Foxhoven to resign because of his Tupac-related emails.




Tupac Shakur was an amazing and inspiring rapper and poet, and it's no wonder that Foxhoven is such a fan.

We can only hope that his next employer will appreciate his love of Tupac as much as the internet does.

Tupac Shakur's book of poetry, The Rose That Grew From Concrete, is available here.