Iowa Democratic

Viewpoints

1/16/99

The times they are a’changing

  1. The first week of the 78th General Assembly was, as always, marked by change. As usual, new members joined veteran legislators to take the oath of office.
  2. But this year marked a much bigger change. This year brings a new Governor for the State of Iowa for the first time in sixteen years. Even more notable, on Friday, the first Democratic Governor in 30 years will take the oath of office.
  3. This single change will create a new dynamic in the legislative process. Everyone has pledged cooperation and it is hoped that this spirit will indeed last beyond the opening days.
  4. On Tuesday, the General Assembly heard the last State of the State address from out-going Governor Terry Branstad. In the audience was the new Governor, Tom Vilsack. It was, indeed, a memorable day.

governor branstad says iowa should embrace change

  1. Although Governor Branstad did highlight some of his achievements while in office, what made this speech stand out was his call to "embrace change". One area that he specifically noted required change was in education. He noted that Iowa is among the best, but "not as good as we could be".
  2. Governor Branstad noted that we tend to resist change, until we "hit a wall", as we did during the farm crisis.
  3. Governor Branstad said our challenge today it to "make changes in the good times so that Iowa can grow into even better times." He also challenged legislators to think "outside the box". He acknowledged this is not easy but noted that the only thing "certain about the future is the certainty of change. We must either embrace it, or face a future that is but a mere reflection of the past."

Governor-elect vilsack fuels the engine of change

  1. While Governor Branstad was preparing his final address, Governor-elect Vilsack and Lt. Governor-elect Sally Pederson were developing their policy proposals to produce that change. On Wednesday, they outlined their plan for education.
  2. Governor Vilsack’s and Lt. Governor Pederson’s initiatives will center on eight goals :
  • Every child will begin school ready to learn. Every child will have a strong foundation in the basics. Every child will have a safe and secure environment in which to learn. Every Iowan will be provided with the skills necessary to succeed in the workforce. Every Iowan willing to study hard will have the opportunity for higher education. Continue to enhance the skill level of Iowa educators. Attract and retain the quality workforce necessary for Iowa’s future. Ensure Iowans access to top-quality library collections and services.