DES MOINES, Iowa (AP) — Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds officially appointed state Senator Chris Cournoyer as her new lieutenant governor during a ceremony on Monday, marking a significant moment as it is the first time women have held both top positions in the state's history. This appointment fills the vacancy left by former lieutenant governor Adam Gregg, who resigned from the role earlier this year.
Cournoyer, who was elected to the Iowa Senate in 2018, brings with her extensive experience and qualifications, particularly from her background in technology and education. With a computer science degree and experience as a website designer, she previously chaired the Education Budget Committee and served as vice chair of the State Government Committee.
“She has the character, judgement, and ability needed to serve as governor if I were ever unable to — qualities which also make her ideally suited to support our work on a day-to-day basis,” Reynolds stated. “I can’t wait to deploy Chris’ extensive experience on key legislative committees, including Ways and Means, and expertise in technology, innovation, and artificial intelligence on important issues for Iowans.”
Cournoyer, residing in LeClaire, officially took the oath of office on Monday, administered by Iowa Supreme Court Chief Justice Susan Christensen. Expressing her gratitude, Cournoyer described the new role as “an honor and somewhat surreal.”
“This is a humbling responsibility for me,” Cournoyer said, adding, “Iowans can be confident I will approach it with the seriousness it deserves.”
Reynolds noted Cournoyer's hands-on approach, crediting her for not merely questioning problems but actively seeking solutions. “Her first instinct isn’t just to wonder ‘why’ something isn’t working right or to complain; it’s actually to get in there and fix the problem herself,” Reynolds said.
Having stepped down from her Senate role to accept the lieutenant governor position, Cournoyer will serve until the next gubernatorial election set for 2026. This change also raises speculations about Reynolds' potential reelection bid, as both are expected to run together if she chooses to seek another term.
Cournoyer has been active on several key issues during her time as senator, advocating for educational initiatives and technology advancement. Among her previous roles, she has been president of the Pleasant Valley School Board, and was involved with the Governor’s STEM Advisory Council, emphasizing the importance of preparing students for modern workplaces.
Reynolds emphasized this alignment with Cournoyer's experiences during the announcement, underscoring the significant role technology will play under her administration as they tackle contemporary challenges. “Given this firsthand experience, Chris understands one of the most effective ways to promote innovation is to promote it in our schools,” Reynolds said.
While Cournoyer’s Senate seat remains vacant following her appointment, Reynolds will need to call for a special election to fill the position, continuing to shape Iowa's political future.
Political responses to Cournoyer’s appointment came swiftly. Senate Majority Leader Jack Whitver expressed his support, stating, “Chris has proven herself over the last six years as a smart, capable conservative.” He remarked on her previous advocacy for legislation securing rights and relief for Iowans.
On the other hand, Matt Sinovic from Progress Iowa took the opportunity to criticize the appointment, claiming it perpetuates what he termed as Reynolds’ “divisive agenda” against ordinary Iowans. Despite differing opinions, Cournoyer's new role is seen as pivotal at this juncture, particularly with the changing political dynamics leading up to the next election.
Governor Reynolds expressed confidence as well, highlighting her anticipation to work alongside Cournoyer. The coming months may bring about important changes focusing on legislative priorities, innovation, and government efficiency.
All eyes will be on Cournoyer's performance as she steps up to the challenges of this new role, ensuring she fulfills the expectations set upon her by Reynolds and the citizens of Iowa. Her appointment not only reshapes Iowa's leadership but stands as a powerful milestone for women representation in state government.
