11:56 PM: Branstad comments on judicial retention, legislative races
Governor-elect Terry Branstad tonight said he thinks the people of Iowa have spoken clearly, as it appears the three Iowa Supreme Court justices up for retention will be ousted.
"The people of Iowa have spoken to say the Supreme Court overstepped its bounds," Branstad said.
Branstad still declined to say how he voted on the issue personally, and said now it is important for the state to take a hard look at its judicial nominating process. He also said he hopes Gov. Chet Culver doesn't appoint new justices on his way out of the office.
"I think it would be inappropriate for a governor who was just rejected by the voters to rush through the appointments of judges," Branstad said.
Branstad also said he is pleased that Republicans have apparently gained control of the Iowa House and come within two seats of controlling the Iowa Senate.
"I love a split Legislature," Branstad jokes. "We got a lot done with that. I just didn't want Democrats controlling both chambers."
-- By Andrew Duffelmeyer
Labels: 2010_election
