IOWA – Not long ago, Iowa’s Terry Branstad gained distinction as the longest-serving governor in U.S. history, pushing past the 20-year, 11-month mark with two years still remaining in his record-setting sixth term.
To call him an Iowa institution is a bit like saying they grow a lot of corn in the countryside, or that it gets cold in the winter.
Part of Branstad’s appeal is a studious anti-charisma. He is a dull speaker, conservative in a mainstream Republican manner and, while personally gracious, not the least bit dynamic. Think pressed turkey and mayonnaise on white bread. (more…)







