Iowa has first Female Gov 052527
Iowa has its first female governor. Former Lt. Governor Kim Reynolds took the oath of office yesterday in the state capitol rotunda in Des Moines. Former Governor Branstad also resigned and took the oath of office to become the United States Ambassador to the Republic of China. Today, Officials with Gov. Reynolds told KCCI that the governor will designate an "acting" Lt. Gov. with full scope and title to operate the office but, will not be in line of succession.
Public Defender Adam Gregg, of Johnston, is her choice. He was at the Statehouse Wednesday when Reynolds was sworn in as governor. Gregg will collect the lieutenant governor's salary of $103,000 but not be in the line of succession. Reynolds spent seven years working with the Republican Governor. Yesterday, Reynolds thanked Branstad for his faith in her after the swearing in.
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“First, governor, ambassador, it’s going to take a while to get used to that. Thank you so much for having the confidence in me to serve as your lt. governor. Every single step of the way, you have inspired me, challenged me. You have believed in me sometimes more than I believed in myself.”
Governor Reynolds said she would focus on four key priorities that she hopes will improve life for Iowans.
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“Reforming Iowa’s tax structure, innovating our energy policy, educating our kids, and workforce training for adults.”
If the Governor were unable to perform her duties, the Senate President Jack Whitver will assume those duties.
Democratic Iowa Attorney General Tom Miller recently released an opinion that Reynolds will have the title and powers of the governor, but not the authority to choose a new lieutenant governor. He cited wording in the Iowa Constitution and historical precedent.
