Branstad among 49 governors protesting proposed Air National Guard cuts

Gov. Terry Branstad has joined with 48 other governors in protesting proposed spending cuts to the Air National Guard.

Branstad on Tuesday released a letter to Defense Secretary Leon Panetta signed by the governors. It opposes plans by the Air Force to reduce Air National Guard spending.

The letter says governors understand the need to reduce spending but argues the Air Guard is among the most cost efficient arms of the military.

Branstad released the letter at his weekly news conference. He also distributed a letter protesting the proposed cuts signed by Maj. Gen. Tim Orr, adjutant general of the Iowa National Guard, and adjutant generals from all other states.

In Iowa, reductions include elimination of F-16 fighter planes, causing the loss of 500 jobs at the Des Moines airport.