Branstad abused power by targeting official

One of the major responsibilities of Iowa's Workers' Compensation Commissioner Chris Godfrey is to decide contested workers' compensation claims. The outcome of the decision can have a major impact on the injured worker's quality of life. It is imperative the commissioner be impartial.

The commissioner's term is for six years after Iowa Senate confirmation, and he does not serve at the pleasure of the governor. Godfrey was confirmed on a Senate vote of 49-0.

So why has Gov. Terry Branstad decided to politicize this position? He asked Godfrey to resign, and when Godfrey chose to fulfill his term, Branstad cut his salary by more than $35,000. The governor admitted in an interview he was motivated by the Iowa Association of Business and Industry (ABI), an influential advocacy group.

Branstad's actions suggest he wants to install a commissioner who is more favorable to employers and insurance companies, rather than someone who is impartial. His unprecedented abuse of power in this situation is way out of line and should not be tolerated.

Branstad should apologize to Godfrey and fully reinstate his salary.

Thomas M. Wertz

Attorney at Law

Cedar Rapids