Scheffler endorses Branstad; calls on conservatives to unite to defeat Culver

UPDATED: Steve Scheffler, a leader of Iowa Christian conservatives as well as a Republican National Committee member, has endorsed former Gov. Terry Branstad's bid for a fifth term.

The endorsement comes a day after the Iowa Family PAC, the political arm of the conservative Iowa Family Policy Center, said it would sit out the gubernatorial race unless Branstad or first-term Democrat Gov. Chet Culver had a fundamental transformation.

Scheffler, executive director of the Iowa Christian Alliance, called Branstad “the honest conservative Iowa needs.”

“His record of accomplishment is a solid reflection of his pro-life and pro-family views,” Scheffler said in his endorsement. “Not only does he talk about supporting Iowa families, but his past actions are proof of his ability to deliver.”

For Iowans concerned about the well-being of Iowa families, “the choice between Terry Branstad and Chet Culver is crystal clear,” Scheffler said.

The Culver campaign downplayed the endorsement, suggesting Scheffler probably voted for Branstad in the first place.

"Still, Branstad has a lot of ground to make up with the nearly 50 percent of Republicans who voted for either one of his two opponents," spokeswoman Ali Glisson said.

Branstad received 50 percent of the vote in the June 8 Republican primary. Bob Vander Plaats and Rep. Rod Roberts garnered 41 percent and 9 percent, respectively.

Scheffler promised to encourage other conservatives to back Branstad and help defeat Chet Culver Nov. 2.

Branstad said he is proud to have Scheffler's backing and have him as a member of his “broad-based coalition of Iowans to successfully lead Iowa's comeback.”

For more, visit

www.GovernorBranstad2010.com.