Iowa officials react to newly named lieutenant governor

DES MOINES — Chris Cournoyer, a former state lawmaker from Le Claire, was sworn in Monday as Iowa’s 48th lieutenant governor.

Cournoyer, 54, will serve with Gov. Kim Reynolds, who has two years remaining on her current term. Cournoyer succeeds former Lt. Gov. Adam Gregg, who resigned in September to take a leadership job with the Iowa Bankers Association. Gregg had been Reynolds’ second-in-command since she ascended to the office in 2017.

Iowa’s political officials reacted to Cournoyer’s appointment and swearing-in Monday. The following are statements or portions of statements among those issued:

Jack Whitver, Republican Iowa Senate Majority Leader

“Chris has proven herself over the last six years as a smart, capable conservative. During her tenure in the Iowa Senate, she was a leading advocate for legislation to secure Second Amendment rights, protections for law enforcement, historic income tax relief, and every other common sense conservative priority the Senate has advanced. She will be missed, but I am happy for her and I look forward to watching her succeed in her new role as lieutenant governor.”

Janice Weiner, Democratic Iowa Senate Minority Leader

“I wish her the best in this new role and hope she will look for opportunities to work cooperatively with her former colleagues in the Senate, regardless of party. Iowans deserve a government that works for their betterment. Senate Democrats stand ready to work with the new lieutenant governor, should she be asked to serve a role in the legislative process.”

Roby Smith, Republican State Treasurer

“I’ve known Chris for nearly a decade and worked closely with her during my time in the Iowa Senate. During the two years she served as vice chair while I was chair of the State Government Committee, she consistently impressed me with her energy, work ethic and character. With her experience, knowledge, and skills, Chris is well positioned to serve Iowans in this important role.”

Rob Sand, Democratic State Auditor

“Congratulations to Chris Cournoyer on her appointment as Iowa’s lieutenant governor. I am happy to work with anyone to serve Iowans.”

Mike Naig, Republican Iowa Agriculture Secretary

“As a state senator, Chris Cournoyer was a strong supporter of Iowa agriculture, and I have no doubt that she will bring the same leadership to her new role as we work to keep Iowa moving forward. I am excited to work with Gov. Reynolds and Lt. Gov. Cournoyer to grow markets for Iowa products, accelerate our conservation and water quality efforts, and make Iowa an even better place to live, work, and raise a family.”

Matt Sinovic, executive director, Progress Iowa

“This appointment signals that Iowans can expect more of the same harmful and hateful policies that sell out to wealthy corporations and the richest Iowans, draining the services working Iowans rely on and pay for. Cournoyer has proven herself to be just as extreme as Reynolds and her new position ensures their divisive agenda will continue to stack the deck against everyday Iowans.”

Randy Feenstra, Republican congressman

“Lt. Gov. Cournoyer and I worked closely in the Iowa Senate to grow our economy and advance our conservative values. I know that she will be a phenomenal partner to Gov. Reynolds and advocate for Iowa’s families, farmers, businesses, and our communities.”

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