Branstad speeches strike themes of togetherness

DES MOINES - The longest-serving governor in the nation's history, Terry Branstad has 22 times delivered to Iowans an annual condition of the state address.

The speech is given each year in January during the first week of the legislative session. Delivered in the House chamber at the Iowa Capitol, lawmakers, state Supreme Court justices and other statewide elected officials attend, and it is broadcast live on public television.

Typically, it is the largest audience the governor attracts each year.

On Jan. 10, Branstad delivered what likely will be his final condition of the state address. The governor has been selected by President Donald Trump to serve as the next U.S. ambassador to China, and his confirmation is expected to come this spring.

To mark the occasion, a news researcher analyzed the texts of each of the six condition of the state addresses Branstad has made since returning to the governor's office in 2011 - starting with his 2012 speech. Obviously, his messages vary, but the analysis shows some recurring topics and word choices. Here are the most common.

Chris Essig of The Gazette contributed to this report. The analysis was based on written speeches provided, and may vary slightly from the actual speech when delivered. If you are using our app, please click here to view the interactive.