Politics and Law (229)
Bills would change Iowa’s judicial nominating system (IowaIndependent)
Written by Other News Sources
During the campaign, Gov. Terry Branstad refused to speak about the retention election three state Supreme Court justices faced. However, he did say he wanted to change the way judges are nominated and mentioned he’d like a system similar to one used at the federal level, where he would nominate someone who would then have to be confirmed by the Iowa Senate.
12% more than the previous year. While the initial reaction is “Why?” the better question is “How do we turn this into an advantage?” What the GOP needs from the gay community more than votes are candidates. Gay Republicans need to come out of the closet and run for office. It is time to put to rest the idea that the platform of the Republican Party has to be anti-gay; has to be socially conservative; has to be based in religious zealotry. In fact, it may actually be the case that gays can save the Republican Party.
One Iowa launches ‘Letters To Mr. Branstad’ effort
Written by Arthur Breur
DES MOINES – On July 14, 2010, One Iowa launched the ‘Letters to Mr. Branstad’ effort to highlight the positive impact same-sex marriage has had in Iowa and help persuade former Governor and current Republican gubernatorial candidate Terry Branstad of the need to protect this freedom for loving, committed couples.
Radio Iowa.com: Tea Party billboard in Mason City raises concern
Written by Other News Sources
A new billboard in downtown Mason City features a photo of President Obama, flanked by pictures of German dictator Adolph Hitler and Communist leader Vladimir Lenin.
The Iowa Independant: Roberts puts chances of Vander Plaats independent run at 50-50
Written by Other News Sources
Former GOP gubernatorial hopeful Rod Roberts of Carroll believes there is still a 50 percent chance Sioux City businessman Bob Vander Plaats will jump back into the race for governor this fall as an independent or third-party candidate.
The Daily Iowan: Iowa City doctor to run for Iowa Senate
Written by Other News SourcesIowa City thoracic and vascular surgeon Christopher Peters will run as a Libertarian candidate for an Iowa Senate seat covering parts of Johnson and Linn Counties, though he doesn’t intend to win.
The Iowa Independant: Liberal third-party challenge launched in HD89
Written by Other News SourcesBlogger John Deeth has the scoop on a third candidate in the hotly contested campaign for the Iowa House District 89 seat, and the addition to the slate could spell doom for the Democratic incumbent.
The Iowa Independant: Liberals more divided over Defense of Marriage Act ruling than tea partiers
Written by Other News Sources
Kirk Johnson has a piece in Saturday’s New York Times that hints at divisions among conservative groups as to whether to support Judge Joseph L. Tauro’s ruling last Thursday that a Massachusetts state law allowing same-sex marriage should take precedence over the federal Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA).
KCCI.com: Reynolds Draws Fire For Gay Marriage Remarks
Written by Other News SourcesDemocratic Congressional candidate Matt Campbell has challenged incumbent Steve King to a series of three debates this year. Campbell's press release notes that King "has never formally debated an opponent" since his first election to Congress in 2002.
DesMoinesRegister: Basu: Has Branstad noticed Iowa has changed?
Written by Other News SourcesIn so many ways, Iowa is a more accepting and progressive place than it was 20 years ago. There's greater appreciation for newcomers and the differences they bring, whether they crossed state borders or the globe to get here. There's more commitment to the environment, and to living in a healthier balance with nature. From animal welfare to the passage of laws protecting children and senior citizens in institutions, there is at least a growing awareness of the vulnerable.
