Breaking News

More () »

news

Branstad sworn in as US Ambassador to China; Reynolds becomes first woman Governor of Iowa

Nearly 85 people attended Governor Branstad’s resignation and swearing in as US Ambassador to China Wednesday at the statehouse. Among those present were ...

Terry Branstad Kim Reynolds_1493663766344.jpg

Nearly 85 people attended Governor Branstad’s resignation and swearing in as US Ambassador to China Wednesday at the statehouse. Among those present were state legislative leaders including Senate President Jack Whitver, Senate Majority Leader Bill Dix, House Speaker Linda Upmeyer and House Majority Leader Chris Hagenow.

Also in attendance were top state officials, including Secretary of Agriculture Bill Northey, Secretary of State Paul Pate, Auditor Mary Mosiman, Attorney General Tom Miller and Adjutant General of the Iowa National Guard Timothy Orr.

Brandstand’s family was also there, including five of his grandchildren who sat in the front row, along with numerous staffers and aids.

Everyone gathered to hear Branstad’s short speech from a podium perched atop the desk he uses for formal bill signings. A plaque with “Governor Terry E. Branstad” stood in front of it, and a photo of Chinese diplomats visiting Iowa displayed behind him.

Soon-to-be-Governor Kim Reynolds watched from the front, beaming when Branstad highlighted her achievements and his confidence in her as the state’s next chief executive. Smiling attendees captured Branstad’s oath of office with camera phones held aloft.

Following his oath, Branstad briefly stopped to shake hands and hug family members before aids quickly funneled him out of his formal office to prepare for Reynolds’ speech.

Kim Reynolds was sworn in as Iowa Governor shortly afterward. In her speech she outlined what her priorities are going forward:

“My vision for our great state embraces our past, builds a better, brighter future. As governor, I will focus every day on four key priorities: reforming Iowa’s tax structure, innovating our energy policy, educating our kids and training for adults.

Our tax code should be simple. It should be fair. And it should inspire – not inhibit – growth. Because the bottom line is this: a simple, more competitive tax code makes it easier for businesses to grow and expand and creates lasting careers for middle-class Iowans.

My second priority is: innovating Iowa’s energy policy. We must view our rich, renewable resources in ways never thought possible. For years, our fields have fed the world. Now, they energize it. They produce products that fuel cars and they host wind turbines that power our communities and businesses.

My third priority is: educating our children. Our children need and deserve an education that meets the demands of the 21st century – focusing on STEM, ensuring our best teachers stay in the classroom and renewing Iowa’s emphasis on literacy.

My fourth priority is: training Iowans with the skills they need for the jobs of the future. Future Ready Iowa will connect Iowa’s efforts in education, workforce training and economic development.”