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Can-Do Conservtive Stumps for Vander Plaats
Jun 06, 2010
So, by now, many of you are familiar with Brian Donegan, the founder and front man of the Can-Do Conservatives. For those of you who aren’t, here’s a quick background. Brian is a legally blind and disabled guy from Georgia. As a young man, he had a passion for becoming a radio DJ when he was told that his disabilities would prevent him from breaking into the industry professionally. Devastated, Brian pretty much gave a proverbial middle finger to everyone who ever told him he “couldn’t” by stepping up and doing everything he possibly could, and probably more thanks to divine intervention, to make a difference and give disabled Americans a voice in Republican politics.
Right now, this inspirational young conservative is ground pounding on behalf of Gubernatorial candidate Bob Vander Plaats in Iowa. I originally planned on going out there with him, but I couldn’t swing it financially and health and car problems would have made the trip a disaster anyway. But I spoke with Brian yesterday and he officially made me the most jealous person on earth. Anyway, he called me at about 3pm and detailed his day so far. He had already been to five cities canvassing. What’s so impressive about this is that he has a disability that makes this excruciatingly painful. Yet the man keeps going.
Vander Plaats, Chuck Norris, Campaign in Hinton
Jun 05, 2010
Republican Gubernatorial candidate Bob Vander Plaats made a stop in Hinton, Iowa tonight– and he didn’t come alone.
People packed the gym at Hinton High School to catch a glimpse of one of Vander Plaats’ biggest supporters, Chuck Norris.
Norris, who has not endorsed a single candidate since he backed Mike Huckabee during his presidential campaign in 2008– announced he would show his support for Vander Plaats last Friday.
He says he doesn’t leave his ranch in Texas for just anyone.
TV Tough Guy in QC, Throws Muscle Behind Candidate
Jun 04, 2010
DAVENPORT, Iowa - With four days until the Iowa primary, a Hollywood tough man came to the Quad Cities to throw his muscle behind a candidate for governor. News 8’s Chris Williams shows why voters weren’t the only ones looking forward to the campaign stop.
Chuck Norris became a political name during the last presidential race. Many credit his support of Republican Mike Huckabee for his win in the Iowa Caucus. Today, Norris campaigned for Bob Vander Plaats who is in a race for the Republican Gubernatorial nomination.
“I called Bob, you know, and asked him how he’s doing,” said Norris, “and he said we’re having a struggle here. So I said, if I can do anything to help.
I asked Vander Plaats, “Why chuck? Why now?”
Vander Plaats: Norris Endorsement, Rally Brings ‘Energy, Enthusiasm’
Jun 04, 2010
CEDAR RAPIDS – Actor, martial arts champion and conservative commentator Chuck Norris isn’t sure what his endorsement of Bob Vander Plaats is worth.
However, there’s no uncertainty in the mind of Vander Plaats, one of three candidates for the Republican nomination for governor, that the endorsement and five-city tour with Norris will bring, “energy, enthusiasm and exposure” to his campaign just at a critical time – four days before the June 8 primary election.
His assessment was spot-on when Norris spoke to loud and enthusiastic crowd of about 300 at Kirkwood Community College in Cedar Rapids June 4.
Dobson Backs Vander Plaats
Jun 03, 2010
Evangelical leader James Dobson endorsed activist Bob Vander Plaats for governor of Iowa on Thursday, reinforcing the Republican candidate’s Christian conservative credentials days before the GOP primary Tuesday.
Dobson highlighted Vander Plaats’s opposition to gay marriage in a statement announcing his support: “Bob has fought tirelessly for conservative family values. He is passionately pro-life and supports the exclusivity of marriage between one man and one woman. Vander Plaats believes that all voters, not just one liberal court, should decide what the definition of marriage should be.”
Vander Plaats is an underdog in Tuesday’s election, trailing former four-term Gov. Terry Branstad in public polls of the race. A Public Policy Polling survey released this week showed Branstad ahead by 15 percentage points.
Read more: http://www.politico.com/news/stories/0610/38084.html#ixzz0pp3ZTgA1
Folksy Bob Vander Plaats Speaks Candidly About His Beliefs
Jun 03, 2010
The Rev. Michael Mudlaff climbs up on a kitchen chair and quiets the crowd of 50 squeezing into his living room and kitchen in Clive on a recent spring evening.
Many are members of Mudlaff’s church, Westkirk Presbyterian in Urbandale, and believe Iowa needs a leader to take a strong stand against same-sex marriage.
The man they have come to see, Republican governor candidate Bob Vander Plaats, 47, stands near a table filled with plates of strawberry shortcake.
Osceola Community Leader Endorsements
Jun 03, 2010
As members of the Osceola community, we the undersigned have made our choice for governor of Iowa: Bob Vander Plaats!
We see a man of real integrity, character and strong morals. He is the only candidate of either party who will shrink the size of government, reduce taxes and stand up to the federal government and an out of control court.
Vander Plaats stands for the sanctity of human life, the dignity of marriage as a union of husband and wife, and the freedom of conscience and religion. As governor, Bob Vander Plaats will be a voice of the people, for the people; not the political establishment.
We urge you to join us, and on June 8 give him his voice to lead Iowa into a new era with your vote. We are!
Sheldon and Claudette Lorenson, John Heilman, Kevin and Leslie Dorlund, Bill and Marilyn Schneck, Terry and Danelle Taylor, Scott and Malane McLin and Dana Hembry, Osceola
Dr. James Dobson Endorses Vander Plaats
Jun 03, 2010
DES MOINES—James C. Dobson, Ph.D., author and host of a nationally syndicated radio program, today endorsed Republican candidate Bob Vander Plaats in his race for Iowa’s next governor.
Speaking as a private individual, Dobson said today, “Bob has fought tirelessly for conservative family values. He is passionately pro-life and supports the exclusivity of marriage between one man and one woman. Vander Plaats believes that all voters, not just one liberal court, should decide what the definition of marriage should be. I’m proud to join Gov. Mike Huckabee, Chuck Norris, the Iowa Family PAC, David Barton, Michael Farris and the president of the Iowa/Nebraska Chapter of the NAACP in urging the citizens of Iowa to vote for Bob Vander Plaats for governor next Tuesday.”
Dobson further stated, “Bob believes the Republican Party should stand for something beyond simply winning elections and holding office. He defends the principles and issues that affect the very fabric of our society—and I’m confident he’ll base his leadership in the state of Iowa on those convictions.”
Vander Plaats: I Offer “Bold, Fresh Leadership”
Jun 02, 2010
SIOUX CITY, Iowa (KTIV) - Next week, Iowa voters will help narrow the very crowded Republican field for governor.
Three men… Terry Branstad, Rod Roberts and Bob Vander Plaats… want your vote. In fact, Vander Plaats squeezed two northwest Iowa stops into his final week of campaigning… including this appearance at Luciano’s Restaurant, in Sioux City, Tuesday.
Vander Plaats knows the race is close, but he believes that voters will send him on to the November general election. Bob Vander Plaats, (R) Candidate for Governor says “People are just plain tired of politics as usual. They want fresh, bold leadership today. That’s the type of leadership we’re offering them.”
Vander Plaats will be back in northwest Iowa, on Saturday night. He’ll take the stage with supporter—and actor—Chuck Norris. That’s at Hinton High School, in Hinton, Iowa, at 7:00pm.
Bob Vander Plaats Visits Ottumwa
Jun 02, 2010
OTTUMWA, IOWA—On Tuesday evening, Republican gubernatorial candidate Bob Vander Plaats spoke at the Bridge View Center in Ottumwa and greeted supporters.
In a recent interview, Lieutenant Governor Patty Judge (D-Iowa) told KTVO that the state budget is balanced, and has been balanced every day of the Culver Administration.
Vander Plaats responded that Iowa is in “financial trouble,” and that the current administration kicked a “$1 billion structural deficit down the road one more year.”
Letter to the Editor: Support Vander Plaats
Jun 02, 2010
To the editor:
Iowa conservatives take note. A person’s acquaintances and actions tell more about a person than simple lip service. A few points to ponder:
Terry Branstad’s former lieutenant governor, Joy Corning, holds a position with Planned Parenthood. Can Terry be a strong supporter of pro-life? Bob Vander Plaats has a strong pro-life stance from womb to tomb. Evidence of this is also proven and endorsed by David Barton and Iowa Family PAC.
Terry Branstad appointed two of the Iowa Supreme Court Justices that allowed same sex marriage in Iowa. Terry refuses to take a strong stand on defending traditional marriage. Bob Vander Plaats has promised to put a halt to same sex marriage on the first day in office. He would allow proper channels to be followed in letting the people of Iowa and elected representatives determine the law in Iowa.
Terry Branstad increased Iowa’s budget 230 percent. Did Iowa’s population increase 230 percent during that period. Bob Vander Plaats vows to cut the budget and taxes.
Letter to the Editor
Jun 01, 2010
From Brian Rohrig
Bob Vander Plaats is my choice for governor because he is the only candidate in either party who will shrink government, reduce taxes, stand up to the federal government and the courts.
He is the only candidate in either party who will do something about illegal immigration by working to enact an Arizona-type law here that allows local and state authorities to detain illegal immigrants.
I’m tired of candidates who say one thing to get our votes and do another thing once they get into office. Bob Vander Plaats is the only candidate we can trust to do what he says he’ll do.
Please vote for Vander Plaats in the upcoming primary June 8.
Vander Plaats: Timing key for his candidacy
May 31, 2010
WATERLOO - In his third bid for the governor’s seat, Sioux City businessman Bob Vander Plaats believes the electoral environment this year is “tailor-made” for his candidacy.
Vander Plaats said he is expecting a surge prior to the June 8 Republican primary vote that will put him ahead of former Gov. Terry Branstad and state Rep. Rod Roberts, who also are vying for the nomination.
“I believe as soon as the people, especially in the Republican primary and the Republican primary voters, as soon as they get the scent that Vander Plaats can push through in the primary, we’re going to push through and push through in a big way,” he said Friday during a meeting with The Courier’s editorial board.
Vander Plaats Runs For Gov As Outsider
May 30, 2010
DES MOINES, Iowa (AP) ― In his third run for Iowa governor, Bob Vander Plaats has campaigned for the June 8 primary as the true outsider who could ride a wave of anti-incumbent anger to victory in November.
Some question whether a man who has spent much of the last decade running for governor can legitimately portray himself as an outsider, but Vander Plaats pointed to the support he received when he spoke at a tea party rally at the Statehouse last year.
And while he’s run for office, he’s never been elected. That’s a contrast with his two opponents, four-term former Gov. Terry Branstad and five-term state Rep. Rod Roberts.
Who Will Win Battle for GOP Soul?
May 30, 2010
Iowa Republicans on June 8 will choose not only a nominee for governor but also a de facto head of the party.
Their choice will send a message about the direction they seek for their party: Should it be a big-tent organization that reaches out to independents and Democrats, or a base-pleasing model of social conservative purity? The bigger question won’t be answered until Nov. 2: Will adherents of each vision coalesce around a common candidate - or stay home?
Many high-ranking Republicans would rather not talk about this battle for the soul of the Iowa GOP. They insist Republicans will support their nominee, whether it’s presumed front-runner former Gov. Terry Branstad, or his top challenger, social conservative darling Bob Vander Plaats, and that all this is the healthy airing of views during a primary.
Vander Plaats Sees Need for Action
May 27, 2010
Bob Vander Plaats’ almost decade-long pursuit of the governorship is due in part to one of his competitors.
When former Gov. Terry Branstad appointed Vander Plaats to serve on the Advisory Council for Brain Injuries during his last term, Vander Plaats got a taste of the inner workings of government, and he didn’t like what he saw, he said recently.
As part of the council, Vander Plaats proposed changes the state could make to better serve people with disabilities. The plan, in his mind, was smart and economically sound, but it went nowhere.
Vander Plaats Releases Second TV Ad, Links Branstad and Culver on Immigration Issue
May 27, 2010
DES MOINES – The campaign of Republican gubernatorial candidate Bob Vander Plaats released a second television ad today, noting the Sioux City businessman is the only candidate in the race to favor Arizona’s strict anti-illegal immigration issue.
In the 30-second ad entitled, “Right Thing to Do”, Vander Plaats states, “Chet Culver and Terry Branstad want to wait for the federal government to do something about illegal immigration. We’ve waited long enough. I’m tired of relying on the federal government and getting no results. As governor, I’ll give our state and local law enforcement the authority to enforce immigration laws. It’s not just common sense; it’s the right thing to do.”
The ad, which begins airing statewide today, can also be seen at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RFV5_MA2t58. The campaign’s first spot, which focuses on Vander Plaats’ economic development strategy, will continue to air throughout the state.
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Vander Plaats Announces Addition of June 5 Northwest Iowa Stop to Chuck Norris Tour
May 26, 2010
DES MOINES – Internationally known actor and martial arts champion Chuck Norris will appear in Hinton near Sioux City on Saturday June 5 to show his support for Republican gubernatorial candidate Bob Vander Plaats, the campaign announced today.
Norris and his wife, Gena, will appear with Vander Plaats at 7:00 p.m. rally at Hinton High School, 315 W. Grand Ave, that is free and open to the public. Two of Bob and Darla Vander Plaats’ four sons graduated from Hinton High School and a third son currently attends the district’s middle school.
“I can’t begin to describe how thrilled I am that Chuck Norris would agree to add a fifth event to his visit to give northwest Iowans a chance to see a real American hero,” Vander Plaats said. “And, I can imagine a more perfect place to be than at a school that has been so special to our family over the years.”
Chuck Norris Headed to Hinton for Vander Plaats
May 26, 2010
Bob Vander Plaats has been sympatico with 2008 presidential candidate Mike Huckabee for a few years. Vander Plaats headed the Iowans on Team Huckabee before he won the January 2008 presidential caucus, and they both have tied in with rugged actor Chuck Norris too. Norris held a fundraiser for Vander Plaats down in Texas, and now he’ll come north to fight for Vander Plaats in the final days before the important June 8 primary to decide the Republican Party 2010 gubernatorial pick.
Norris will hit some major Iowa metros on his June 4 and 5 swing, with Davenport, Des Moines, Cedar Rapids and Council Bluffs as stops. He’ll also head 10 miles north of Sioux City to the town of Hinton. Vander Plaats lives in rural Sioux City just south of Hinton, and that’s where his sons go to school. Hinton has a population of 808, which is probably also the number of roundhouses Norris doled out in an average episode of “Walker, Texas Ranger.”
That Texas reference in the first paragraph reminds me how Huckabee once had a wry ad that concerned what he saw as the best border security option. The answer to the problem: “Two words — Chuck Norris,” Huckabee said.
Vander Plaats Pitches New Plan to Sioux City Business Leaders
May 26, 2010
A Siouxland candidate for Iowa governor pitches what he calls better strategies to local leaders. Republican Bob Vander Plaats spoke to the Sioux City Business Leaders Club Wednesday about turning things around for entrepreneurs in Iowa.
Iowa ranks 49th in the country for new business start-ups and the candidate hopes new policies will grow the state’s economy.
“We’ve had governor after governor, politician after politician, politics as usual, say we’re going to open up the state for business. The fact is that it hasn’t happened. I think they want real life leadership, real life experience, real life results today. That’s why I think we’ll be successful in 13 days from today and why we’ll be successful on November 2nd. We look forward to this race in a big way,” said Vander Plaats.”
Vander Plaats Sees Late Surge Overtaking Branstad
May 26, 2010
Thirteen days.
That’s all that’s left for Sioux City business consultant Rob Vander Plaats or state Rep. Rod Roberts of Carroll to upset former Gov. Terry Branstad in the June 8 primary election to determine the Republican candidate to oppose Gov. Chet Culver this fall.
While Branstad has raised more money, and polls show a larger margin over Culver, Vander Plaats says recent momentum in public opinion was evident after last week’s primary debate at Iowa Public Television studios.
Scheuermann: From Hardcourt to Campaign Trail
May 26, 2010
FARMINGTON –– A Van Buren County chiropractor has unique ties with Republican gubernatorial candidate Bob Vander Plaats of Sioux City.
Dr. Troy Scheuermann played basketball for Vander Plaats when Vander Plaats was the head boys basketball coach and a teacher at Jefferson High School in west central Iowa in the late 1980s.
“He was a wonderful role model. He gave me a chance to prove myself,” Scheuermann said. “He made us work hard and expected a lot out of us. He was fun to be around and always had a positive outlook. He’d have us over to his house the night before the game.”
Gubernatorial Race a Study in Contrast
May 23, 2010
DES MOINES - Picture a graying Goliath returning to the political battlefield to face a pair of would-be Davids and you’ve pretty much summed up Iowa Republicans’ three-way fight for governor this year.
Terry Branstad, 63, who was both the state’s youngest and longest-serving chief executive as Iowa’s 39th governor, is out to make history again in 2010 with a comeback bid that could make him only the second governor ever to return to the office after a 12-year hiatus.
Standing in his way are two northwest Iowa Republicans - five-term state Rep. Rod Roberts, 52, of Carroll, making his first foray into gubernatorial politics, and Bob Vander Plaats, 47, a Sioux City businessman hoping to capitalize on anti-incumbent sentiment in his third try to become the GOP nominee.
Should Taxpayers Foot the Bill for Preschool?
May 23, 2010
Michelle Pender, a teacher, sees universal public preschool as a weight off the backs of middle-class Iowa parents who want a good start for their children but cannot afford tuition. Craig Hoeman sees a burden on taxpayers and the death knell for private preschools that are forced to compete with public schools.
Hoeman and his wife, Jan, had hoped to sell Jan’s Urbandale preschool when she retired last year. Instead, they closed it after potential buyers backed out.
“They were afraid the state was going to take over the preschool business,” Craig Hoeman said. “It cost us a lot of money.”
Leading Conservative Bill Salier Endorses Vander Plaats
May 23, 2010
WEST DES MOINES, Iowa—Bill Salier, a staunch pro-life, small-government conservative and co-founder of the group Everyday America, today announced his support for Republican gubernatorial candidate Bob Vander Plaats.
“Bob Vander Plaats is the only candidate in the governor’s race who stands for true conservative values,” Salier said during a Vander Plaats campaign rally at Crossroads Park. “He understands that our freedoms depend on the checks and balances that our Founding Fathers so wisely installed into our system of governance. He’ll be a governor who stands up for what is right and stands strong in defense of our rights.”
A former Marine who completed his tour of duty in Somalia, Salier shook up the state’s political scene when his grassroots campaign for the GOP’s 2002 U.S. Senate nomination garnered 42 percent of the vote against then-Congressman Greg Ganske. Salier served as the Iowa state chairman of then-Colorado Congressman Tom Tancredo’s 2008 presidential campaign. A graduate of Iowa State University, Salier and his wife Karla operate the family farm near Nora Springs.
Vander Plaats Releases TV Commercial Featuring Economic Development Strategy
May 21, 2010
DES MOINES – The campaign of Republican gubernatorial candidate Bob Vander Plaats today said it will begin airing a television commercial on Monday featuring his economic development strategy.
“The 30-second spot goes up on Monday morning across the state and we’ll be on the air through Primary Day. It will put Bob Vander Plaats’ positive message before Iowans just as the balance of GOP voters are sharply focused on the race and making their decision about who will represent the party against Chet Culver in the fall,” said Eric Woolson, Vander Plaats’ campaign manager. “The ad underscores the fact that Bob Vander Plaats is offering the most comprehensive economic development strategy of any candidate in the race.”
The ad, entitled “Start-Up Capital of the World,” can be seen at the link http://teamvp2010.com/blog/first_tv_ad/.
Vander Plaats Calls Out Branstad On Record of Spending, Taxes During Final GOP Gubernatorial Debate
May 20, 2010
DES MOINES – Sioux City businessman Bob Vander Plaats pressed former Gov. Terry Branstad on his fiscal record while in office during the third and final debate Republican gubernatorial primary today.
After Branstad claimed to be a fiscal conservative who cut taxes by $124 million, Vander Plaats noted that the state budget more than doubled from $1.9 billion to $4.5 billion during Branstad’s time in office.
“Former State Auditor Dick Johnson said you kept two sets of books. You increased the budget $1.2 billion more than the inflation rate,” Vander Plaats said during the debate sponsored by Iowa Public Television and The Des Moines Register. “How can Iowans trust you with their wallets again?
Iowa GOP Governor Candidates Clash in Final Debate
May 20, 2010
JOHNSTON, Iowa - The three Republican candidates for governor tangled over taxes and spending Thursday in their final debate, with businessman Bob Vander Plaats trying to put Terry Branstad on the defensive for his 16-year record as governor.
Less than three weeks before the June 8 primary, Vander Plaats repeatedly criticized Branstad’s four-term tenure. Vander Plaats noted that Branstad approved two sales tax increases and a gas tax hike, and he argued that state government spending more than doubled while Branstad was governor.
“Why should Iowans trust you with their wallet again?” Vander Plaats asked.
Vander Plaats Talks Local Issues
May 19, 2010
FORT MADISON — Supporters of Bob Vander Plaats displayed for the Republican gubernatorial candidate one of his very own platforms: All politics is local.
During a pizza and politics event Tuesday at a Fort Madison Pizza Hut, Vander Plaats said he would like to see local control returned to community school boards, instead of established state bureaucracy.
The crowd responded by talking about their own local school issues, before jumping to local prison issues.
Campaign Raises $284,383 Since January, Has $274,613 for Stretch Run to Primary Day
May 19, 2010
DES MOINES – The campaign of Republican gubernatorial candidate Bob Vander Plaats today submitted its financial disclosure report to the Iowa Ethics and Campaign Disclosure Board, showing it raised $284,383 between January 1 and May 14 and had $247,613 cash on hand as the GOP primary enters the final stretch to the June 8 primary election.
“With our cash on hand and our continued strong fundraising efforts in May, our campaign will have the funds necessary to win on June 8,” Vander Plaats said. “We have the funding to have a significant advertising presence to get our message to Iowa Republicans as they are making their decision about our party’s nominee and its future.”
Vander Plaats Takes Aim at Culver Policies
May 18, 2010
Bob Vander Plaats, Republican gubernatorial candidate, took aim at a number of state policies, including early childhood education, during a campaign stop in Marshalltown Monday.
Although Vander Plaats, as a former educator, said he understands that the most formative years are the preschool years, he said the most influential teachers during that time are the parents. It is a time parents should take advantage of, Vander Plaats said, and he would work to create an economic environment in the state that allows one parent to stay at home.
“The schools are not designed to raise our children,” Vander Plaats said. “We’ve got years of evidence to suggest that we are bad at it if that’s the case. Schools were designed to educate our children.”
Vander Plaats Stops at Hamburg Inn
May 18, 2010
Claude Williams frequents the Hamburg Inn No. 2, but has previously made a point to avoid the politicians who have stopped by the iconic eatery over the years.
Williams made an exception to his rule Tuesday morning when he came out to the Hamburg to meet with Republican gubernatorial candidate Bob Vander Plaats. Williams said he has been impressed with Vander Plaats’ integrity, honesty and position on issues such as education and the sanctity of human life.
“We need some good people in office,” Williams said.
Is Branstad Saying He Was Wrong in 1990, 1994 or Will His Lt. Governor Favor Big Tax Increases
May 17, 2010
MARSHALLTOWN – Former Gov. Terry Branstad’s attempt to capitalize on a recent health issue by saying the episode underscores the importance of selecting a conservative running mate “begs the question of why he didn’t do it when he had two opportunities and exactly what his definition of a conservative is in the first place,” Republican gubernatorial candidate Bob Vander Plaats said today.
Branstad was admitted to a Des Moines hospital on May 5 for a medical procedure to clear an artery that was 60 percent blocked near the site of a stent that was installed in 2000 after he experienced a heart attack. Branstad said in an interview published in the Des Moines Register on Saturday, “It’s very important, somewhat because of my age, that the person I choose as lieutenant governor … be someone I feel very confident shares my conservative fiscal and social philosophy.”
Vander Plaats said Iowans, including members of the media, should ask Branstad if he now believes his selection of then-state Sen. Joy Corning of Cedar Falls, as his 1990 running mate was a mistake.
Info on Eastern Iowa Chuck Norris Event for Bob Vander Plaats
May 16, 2010
Fayette County Republican Party
Action movie star Chuck Norris will be returning to eastern Iowa on Friday June 4th. Norris appeared in Oelwein in a campaign event for Mike Huckabee 1/2/2008.
This time Chuck will be campaigning for gubernatorial candidate Bob Vander Plaats.
Event will be in Cedar Rapids at 5:30pm Friday June 4th at the Kirkwood Center, 7725 Kirkwood Blvd SW. Prior to the free public appearance will be a $500 per couple fundraiser.
Reservations must be made no later than May 24. Contact Tim Dusenbery at tim.dusenbery@team vp2010.com or (515) 278-5183.
May 17 - Bob Vander Plaats in Marshalltown
May 15, 2010
Marshall County Iowa Republicans
Bob Vander Plaats will be in Marshalltown on Monday, May 17th at Noon. He will be hosting the event at the Pizza Ranch (map). Pizza and drinks will be provided.
Vander Plaats Brandishes Non-Politician Record
May 14, 2010
CEDAR FALLS - The best candidate to face off against Gov. Chet Culver this fall is the one without a record in office, said a western Iowa Republican vying for his party’s nomination.
Sioux City businessman Bob Vander Plaats used his background of never holding an elected position to distance himself from his two opponents in the June 8 GOP primary during a speech at Friday the Park Place Event Centre in Cedar Falls.
“Culver’s only chance at re-election is giving him a candidate with a political record,” Vander Plaats said.
Vander Plaats Gears Up for ‘Crucial Primary Vote’
May 14, 2010
MUSCATINE, Iowa - Republican gubernatorial candidate Bob Vander Plaats said Wednesday he worries Iowa is exporting its No. 1 resource: Its children.
So imagine how he felt when his son, Hans, told his parents that upon completing his studies at Oxford University this spring, he would begin work in New York.
“When he marries and has kids, I believe he will want to move back to Iowa and drive a 4-by-4 truck again,” Vander Plaats told a crowd of around 40 people at Whispering Pines Golf Course.
Sites of Chuck Norris Appearances in Davenport, Cedar Rapids, West Des Moines, and Council Bluffs
May 13, 2010
DES MOINES – The times and locations of four Bob Vander Plaats for governor campaign events featuring internationally known actor and martial arts champion Chuck Norris have been announced.
Norris and his wife, Gena, will appear with Vander Plaats at a noon, June 4 rally at LeClaire Park on the Mississippi River in downtown Davenport. They will appear later that same day at a 5:30 p.m. event at the hotel at Kirkwood Center, 7725 Kirkwood Blvd., SW, in Cedar Rapids.
On Saturday, June 5, the campaign will hold a 10:30 a.m. rally at Jordan Park Camp, 2251 Fuller Road, West Des Moines. A 4:30 p.m. rally is scheduled at The Bluffs Center, 714 S. Main St., Council Bluffs.
Vander Plaats Speaks at GOP Lunch
May 11, 2010
Meanwhile, Sioux City businessman Bob Vander Plaats said the state has been “hostile” to job creation for years, arguing for lower taxes and less regulation.
The luncheon came on the day Culver’s campaign announced he would kick off his re-election campaign next week. He’ll be in Davenport at 5:30 p.m. May 18 at the Figge Art Museum.
Donn Stanley, Culver’s campaign manager, responded that the governor has balanced the state’s budget without raising taxes and has worked to attract companies like IBM and Google to the state.
Scott County Republicans fired up for primary
May 10, 2010
DAVENPORT, Iowa - Iowa voters go to the polls in less than a month. The June 8th vote will pick a Republican challenger to run against Gov. Chet Culver. And the GOP is calling on state budget cuts to capture a win.
“Is there anybody in this room that would like to replace Chet Culver in November?” asked Carol Crain, president of the Scott County Republican Women.
It’s a question to energize, inspire and fire up Republicans for the Iowa Primary. Just 29 days until the vote, two-thirds of the Republican gubernatorial challengers were campaigning in Davenport on Monday.
Vander Plaats Focus on Soldiers, Veterans
May 09, 2010
DES MOINES, Iowa (AP) — Veterans and people serving in the military make up less than 10 percent of Iowa’s population, but they’re drawing lots of attention from the candidates for governor.
GOP challenger Bob Vander Plaats notes that one of his top campaign advisers is a retired brigadier general in the Iowa Army National Guard.
Why so much attention for a relatively small group?
Branstad Flips on Immigration Issue
May 05, 2010
Republican candidate for governor Bob Vander Plaats says he supports denying state benefits such as in-state college tuition to children of illegal immigrants, even if the children were born in the United States.
Former Gov. Terry Branstad said the same thing Saturday but backtracked Tuesday.
Some scholars, citing “very strong” precedent, say the Constitution is clear that children born in the United States are citizens and entitled to services. A more pertinent question, they say, is how far states can go in limiting benefits for illegal immigrants and children not born in the United States.
Rasmussen Poll: Vander Plaats Lead Culver
May 03, 2010
Terry Branstad and Bob Vander Plaats both continue to lead incumbent Gov. Chet Culver in the latest poll from Rasmussen Reports. Branstad leads Culver by 15 percentage points, compared to 16 points in March. Vander Plaats leads Culver by 4 percentage points, up from 2 points in March. Rod Roberts still trails Culver by 2 percentage points.
The survey of 500 likely voters was conducted April 29, and has a margin of error of plus or minus 4.5 percentage points.
Here are the numbers, with the March poll in parentheses:
Vander Plaats: 45 percent (42 percent)
Culver: 41 percent (40 percent)
Some other candidate: 9 percent (8 percent)
Not sure: 5 percent (11 percent)
Sioux City Journal Editorial Board Interview
May 03, 2010
State Parties Look to Loyalty Oaths in Effort to Keep Candidates in Line
May 03, 2010
In an age of political turmoil, party loyalty is increasingly taking front and center stage in the world of state party politics. In Florida, Iowa and Georgia state political parties are challenging candidates within their own parties in an effort to maintain party unity.
Over the weekend, two of the three candidates for Iowa governor clashed over the topic of party loyalty during a forum in Cedar Rapids.
At the debate candidates were asked whether they would back the party’s nominee. Bob Vander Plaats suggested competitor Terry Branstad — the former governor — was not a “team player” when it came to supporting Republicans.
Vander Plaats: ‘Grassroots is with Us’
May 03, 2010
SIOUX CITY—Republican gubernatorial Bob Vander Plaats said Monday his campaign is aligned to achieve success in 2010, operating in an environment where the conservative tea party movement demands a change from politics as usual.
A management consultant from Sioux City who’s seeking the governor position for a third time since 2002, Vander Plaats said perseverance is a virtue and that he’ll win the June 8 primary, five weeks from today. The Republican’s opponents are State Rep. Rod Roberts of Carroll and former four-time governor Terry Branstad.
Branstad and Vander Plaats Spar in 2nd Debate
May 03, 2010
This past weekend, the Republican gubernatorial candidates squared off in the second of their three scheduled debates. If you are already a supporter of one of the candidates, there is a good chance that you think your candidate won the debate. If you don’t have a candidate in the race, then this debate probably didn’t help make up your mind.
There are three headlines coming out of Saturday’s debate.
Obradovich: Vander Plaats Keeps Cool, Scores Points
May 02, 2010
Cedar Rapids, Ia. - The three Republican candidates for governor in a Saturday debate elevated “getting rid of illegal immigrants” to the status of a plan to balance the state budget.
Rep. Rod Roberts of Carroll, asked to name one program he’d eliminate to help balance the state budget, said he’d make sure adults here illegally couldn’t get services from the state. Former Gov. Terry Branstad and Sioux City businessman Bob Vander Plaats quickly dittoed the idea.
Vander Plaats, Branstad Clash on Party Loyalty During Cedar Rapids Debate
May 01, 2010
CEDAR RAPIDS, Iowa – Republican gubernatorial candidate Bob Vander Plaats drew clear differences with his primary election opponents today, providing the most specific plans to reform education, attract businesses and quality jobs to Iowa, reduce taxes and government spending and protect the state from illegal immigration.
During the debate sponsored by the Iowa Broadcast News Association and aired statewide on Iowa Public Television, Vander Plaats said he would save $100 million annually by ending state aid to illegal aliens.
“That’s why I came out very strong when Arizona came out with the new immigration stance they did,” he said, referring to the measure requiring state and local law officers to enforce federal immigration laws. “I don’t know about you but I know about me and I’m tired of relying on the federal government. If the federal government is going to be inept in this area the state of Iowa needs to take charge.”
Vander Plaats Takes Tough Immigration Stand
May 01, 2010
DES MOINES—Two Iowa Republicans running for governor staked out get-tough positions on illegal immigration Friday.
In separate media interviews, Sioux City businessman Bob Vander Plaats and Rep. Rod Roberts, R-Carroll, both said they—if either is elected governor next November—would seek to more actively curb the presence of people illegally working, residing or receiving government benefits in Iowa without proper documentation.
Vander Plaats Visits Wapello, Weighs in on Arizona Law
Apr 30, 2010
WAPELLO, Iowa — Republican gubernatorial candidate Bob Vander Plaats said if he’s elected governor, Iowans won’t have to deal with “politics as usual,” and that he plans on creating an environment where new small businesses can grow.
“We must eliminate the corporate income tax ... and drastically reduce property tax on business and industry,” Vander Plaats told a group of about 15 people Friday at the Wapello State Bank Community Room.
Vander Plaats: I Would Not Only Support But Propose Illegal Immigration Law Based on Arizona Law
Apr 30, 2010
DES MOINES – Republican gubernatorial candidate Bob Vander Plaats said this morning that he would propose legislation based on a new Arizona Iaw that makes it a crime to be in the country illegally because Iowa must “put some teeth behind” its enforcement of immigration laws.
Arizona’s law, which is the toughest in the nation, makes it a state crime to be in the country illegally and requires local police to enforce federal immigration laws. It also requires anyone whom police suspect of being in the country illegally to produce an alien registration document, such as a green card or other proof of citizenship, such as a passport or a state driver’s license.
“Not only will I support Gov. Jan Brewer’s plan but I will pursue similar legislation in Iowa,” Vander Plaats said during an interview on WHO Radio’s Jan Mickelson Show. “What Arizona is doing is not just a reflection of what Arizonans feel but what Iowans feel, too. The federal government has proven inept and has shown no interest in dealing with the issue. It’s time for states to step up.”
Video: Interview with GOP Gubernatorial Candidate Bob Vander Plaats
Apr 30, 2010
Monday: Bob Vander Plaats Republican gubernatorial candidate Bob Vander Plaats met with the Register’s editorial board, news editors and reporters Monday to talk about his candidacy. Watch the interview below.
GOP Gubernatorial Debate Saturday Night
Apr 30, 2010
The three Republican candidates who want to replace Governor Chet Culver are facing off against each other Saturday.
Terry Branstad, Rod Roberts and Bob Vander Plaats will debate in Cedar Rapids. Iowa Public Television will broadcast the debate live on digital 11.3 or Mediacom channel 119.
The debate begins at 3:30 Saturday afternoon and it will re-air at 8:00 pm on IPTV.
The Republican primary will be held in June.
Vander Plaats Touts Iowa’s ‘Vast Potential’
Apr 29, 2010
Republican gubernatorial hopeful Bob Vander Plaats pitched his plans for the state on Wednesday at Pizza Ranch in Dubuque.
The Sioux City businessman said he holds “pizza and politics” sessions across the state because a high school classmate and supporter founded the restaurant chain. Vander Plaats talked to a crowd of around 40 people about improving education in Iowa, creating a more business-friendly climate to boost the economy, stopping gay marriage until approved by voters and states’ rights.
Vander Plaats: Governor Has the Power to Stay Gay Marriages
Apr 28, 2010
Bob Vander Plaats told a group of approximately 12 citizens here Wednesday that on his first day as governor he will issue an executive order staying gay marriages in Iowa.
He expressed concern that Iowa courts, as well as those throughout the nation, are becoming too powerful.
“Courts do not make laws, the Legislature does,” he said, referring to a recent Iowa Supreme Court decision to allow same sex marriages in Iowa.
Chief Salesman for Iowa, and More
Apr 27, 2010
There was a consistent theme in the Register’s editorial board session Monday with Bob Vander Plaats: Government is the problem.
Getting government out of the way is the solution to many of Iowa’s challenges, said Vander Plaats, who is seeking the Republican nomination for governor in the June 8 primary. That way businesses, teachers, mental-health providers, state workers and others could do their jobs. Taxes, regulations and mandates should be cut or eliminated, and the state should not choose which businesses will be winners and losers.
This mostly follows the Vander Plaats’ script. If he sounded rehearsed, that’s understandable since he’s been running for governor on and off for the better part of a decade.
Vander Plaats to Culver: Sign the ‘Shall Issue’ Right-to-Carry Second Amendment Legislation Now
Apr 26, 2010
DES MOINES – With the deadline looming for Governor Chet Culver to sign into law bills that passed during the 2010 legislative session, Republican gubernatorial candidate Bob Vander Plaats today called on the governor to sign Senate File 2379, Iowa’s “shall issue” right-to-carry bill.
The bill, which would standardize the process of issuing concealed carry permits for all Iowa counties, would require sheriffs to issue a permit to carry to all applicants unless they are subject to certain disqualifications.
Third District Republicans Gather in Grinnell
Apr 26, 2010
Third District Republicans descended upon Grinnell this weekend for the Republican District Convention. It was the second election cycle in a row that Grinnell has held the district convention. Being centrally located and right off of Interstate 80, makes it a convenient location for each of the 12 Third District counties to get to.
As with any convention, there is always a chance that they get a little lengthy, and this one, unfortunately, fell into that category. The convention started slowly, and some of the speeches seemed a little too lengthy and almost unnecessary at times.
Vander Plaats Pushes for Tougher Immigration Laws
Apr 26, 2010
Republican candidate for governor Bob Vander Plaats wants Iowa to introduce tougher immigration laws similar to the ones enacted in Oklahoma in 2007 or Arizona last week.
Both measures provide greater criminal penalties for immigrants and make it a crime to aid or hire them.
Vander Plaats: Wean State From Gambling
Apr 24, 2010
Des Moines, IA (Radio Iowa/AP/KICD)—Republican gubernatorial candidate Bob Vander Plaats says state government is addicted to gambling and it’s time to start a process to eliminate legalized gambling in Iowa.
Former Governor Terry Branstad, a competitor, signed the law in 1983 when legalized parimutuel gambling—wagering on horse and dog races. Two years later, Branstad approved creation of the state-run Iowa Lottery. In 1989, Branstad signed the law which ushered in casino-style gambling, but it was orginally limited to riverboats. Vander Plaats suggests Branstad—with that history—is vulnerable when he argues against the current governor’s call for four new casinos in Iowa.
Vander Plaats States Economic Plan
Apr 23, 2010
WALFORD, Iowa—Debbie Brooks sees Bob Vander Plaats as a little bit “Mr. Smith Goes to Washington” and a lot of Thomas Edison.
“He’s just an everyday person with the experience to come in and be a leader,” Brooks said after the Republican gubernatorial hopeful spoke to a couple of dozen people in her Walford living room recently. “He not only sees the need for change, but he knows how to do it.”
The need for change couldn’t be clearer, according to Vander Plaats, who is making his third run for governor.
Vander Plaats Favors Phasing Out Gambling Dependence
Apr 23, 2010
JOHNSTON – GOP gubernatorial candidate Bob Vander Plaats said Friday he wants to build a vibrant private-sector business climate while shrinking government and working to “wean” Iowa off gambling in hopes of gradually phasing out casinos and the state lottery.
The Sioux City businessman also ruled out running for governor as an independent or third-party candidate if he fails to garner the Republican nomination for governor in the June 8 primary election. He made his comments during and after the taping of Iowa Public Television’s “Iowa Press” show.
“I have no interest, no desire and no intent on running an independent candidacy,” he said. “I don’t believe me running as a third party does anything for the Republican Party of Iowa, I don’t think it does anything for the future of Iowa. I believe we need to make this choice right now.”
Vander Plaats to Visit North Iowa
Apr 23, 2010
MASON CITY — Bob Vander Plaats, who is seeking the Republican nomination for governor, will make several stops in North Iowa Monday and Tuesday.
He will be at Godfather’s Pizza in Hampton from noon to 1:30 p.m. Monday; at Pizza Ranch in Garner from 5 to 6:30 p.m.; and at Shooterz in Forest City from 7 to 8:30 p.m.
On Tuesday, Vander Plaats will be at Cabin Coffee on Indianhead Drive in Mason City from 7:30 to 8:30 a.m. and will tour the Good Samaritan Care Facility in St. Ansgar from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m.
Private Sector Leadership Needed to Start Iowa Economic Engine
Apr 22, 2010
WALFORD – Debbie Brooks sees Bob Vander Plaats as a little bit “Mr. Smith Goes to Washington” ands lot of Thomas Edison.
“He’s just an everyday person with the experience to come in and be a leader,” Brooks said after the Republican gubernatorial hopeful spoke to a couple of dozen people in her Walford living room Thursday evening. “He not only sees the need for change, but he knows how to do it.” Like Edison, she added, Vander Plaats doesn’t stop if things don’t work, but keeps trying.
The need for change couldn’t be clearer, according to Vander Plaats, who is making his third run for governor. He’s not running because of what’s wrong with Iowa, but because he sees Iowa’s vast potential. Iowa has the natural resources, the educated workforce and the infrastructure to be the country’s next economic engine.
Straw Polls Mean Something
Apr 21, 2010
In a column posted on the blog of Christian radio host Steve Deace, Eric Woolson, campaign manager for Republican gubernatorial candidate Bob Vander Plaats, took issue with the perception that his candidate’s victories in county straw polls are meaningless.
Vander Plaats has won the majority of straw polls held around the state. The knock against those victories is that the results are drawn from a small sample typically dominated by the Republican Party’s base — social and religious conservatives. The straw polls will bare little resemblance to the primary electorate, which is much bigger and much more diverse, critics say.
Bob Vander Plaats in Monticello on Thursday
Apr 21, 2010
Jones County Republican Committee
Bob Vander Plaats’ Thursday, April 22, · 12:00 p.m.-1:30 p.m., Pizza and Politics, Pizza Ranch, 505 E. Oak St., Monticello, IA
Will Johnson plans to attend. See below.
Vander Plaats: Five-Point Education Leadership Strategy Sets High Standards, Returns Local Control
Apr 19, 2010
DES MOINES – Republican gubernatorial candidate Bob Vander Plaats released his five-point education leadership strategy today, saying that Iowa “needs to do things differently and it should start by freeing schools from senseless mandates and simplifying their funding. I will lead, we will set the expectations high, and then we will get out of the way and expect local leaders to make good decisions for students and families.”
“I’m a former business teacher and principal, so I know firsthand that Iowa has a strong education foundation, but our current results say loud and clear that we need a governor who is going to change the way we’re doing things,” Vander Plaats said during WHO Radio’s Jan Mickelson Show. “My goal has always been to increase student performance and further professionalize the teaching profession. I want to reignite the teachers’ passion for teaching so our students achieve the highest expectations, preparing them to be bold leaders of our future. I want to lead us to an environment where research and design and the sharing of best practices take place. Our students’ futures depend on it and, frankly, the future of our state depends on it, too.”
Vander Plaats Offers K-12 Education Strategy
Apr 19, 2010
DES MOINES – Republican gubernatorial candidate Bob Vander Plaats on Monday issued a K-12 education strategy that called for more charter schools, more emphasis on local control and high student performance standards.
Vander Plaats, a former business teacher and principal, said wants to offer expanded school choice by encouraging more charter schools while allowing state aid to follow any student to a new school if their current school is failing to educate them. He also would expand tax credits for parents who choose to educate their children at home or at private schools as a way to promote competition and spur public schools to improve.
Vander Plaats Pushes Fiscal Credentials
Apr 17, 2010
Republican gubernatorial candidate Bob Vander Plaats said Saturday that not only is he the most socially conservative candidate for governor, but he is also the most fiscally conservative.
Vander Plaats advocated eliminating the corporate income tax, reducing property taxes, cutting the capital gains tax rate by more than half and eliminating the state income tax for military personnel on active duty.
He also said the Legislature should revisit $290 million in spending reductions proposed by House Republicans this year and that he would line-tem veto any legislation that funds ongoing expenditures with one-time funds.
Vander Plaats Speaks to 1,100 at Tea Party’s Statehouse Rally
Apr 15, 2010
About 1,100 Tea Partiers rallied Thursday at the Iowa Capitol calling for less government spending, less government intrusion and a turnover in political leadership, even as several politicians milled through the crowd and some sported signs, shirts and buttons showing their allegiance to various campaigns.
Vander Plaats said his campaign will capture the Tea Party’s support, saying “I know they’ll turn out for me” and noting his private-sector experience compared to his opponents’ long stints in political office.
“We’re thrilled about the support we’ve got here,” Vander Plaats said. “I can’t give you a percentage, but I think the vast majority are saying we’re going to help you win back this governorship.”
Vander Plaats: Running to Fulfill Iowa’s Potential
Apr 15, 2010
Bob Vander Plaats said he’s running for Iowa govenor because of the vast potential he sees in the state.
“I believe we can become the next economic engine in the country,” the Sioux City Republican said during a lunch stop Wednesday in Council Bluffs. “We have the infrastructure, we have the people and Iowa is ‘smack dab’ in the middle of the country. But, if we are to get there, we need new leadership.”
Vander Plaats, a former teacher, is in a three-man race for the GOP nod.
Vander Plaats Touts Principles
Apr 14, 2010
COUNCIL BLUFFS—Bob Vander Plaats says he’s running for governor because of the vast potential he sees in Iowa.
“I believe we can become the next economic engine in the country,” the Sioux City Republican said during a lunch stop Wednesday in Council Bluffs.
“We have the infrastructure, we have the people, and Iowa is smack-dab in the middle of the country. But if we are to get there, we need new leadership.”
Vander Plaats Emphasizes Importance of Animal Agriculture Industry
Apr 13, 2010
SIOUX CENTER, Iowa – Touring an egg production facility today, Republican gubernatorial candidate Bob Vander Plaats said the animal agriculture industry is an important part of the state’s economy and “will have my strongest support as governor.”
Noting the Humane Society of the United States recently attacked the state’s egg farmers, Vander Plaats said he also is concerned about pending federal meat safety regulations that could drive many Iowa firms that produce meat products out of business.
While touring a Center Fresh Egg facility, Vander Plaats said, “Iowa egg farmers produce 15 billion eggs a year. They’re good citizens who truly can and do feed the world. They produce the highest protein source at the lowest cost – and they do it by providing quality care to their livestock. They’re important to Iowa’s economy and our well-being and, as governor, I’ll stand up and defend them from those who want to drive the livestock industry off-shore or destroy it altogether.”
Vander Plaats: Culver MIA on Protecting Livestock Industry
Apr 13, 2010
Touring an egg production facility today, Republican gubernatorial hopeful Bob Vander Plaats said the animal agriculture industry is an important part of the state’s economy and “will have my strongest support as governor.”
He warned that USDA proposed meat testing requirements to keep bacteria out of food products while well-intended, will put livestock farmers out of business.
Vander Plaats Stops at Smokey Row
Apr 13, 2010
OSKALOOSA — It’s two months until the Republican primary election and Bob Vander Plaats made his case before a packed house at Smokey Row Thursday evening why he should be nominated to challenge Democratic Gov. Chet Culver.
Vander Plaats was campaigning after the Republican debate the night before and he touted the fact that he led the pack in several straw polls afterward.
Vander Plaats Shares Personal Story About Why He is Pro-Life
Apr 12, 2010
At least two Republican gubernatorial candidates would axe funding to an Iowa City cloning research facility as well as to Planned Parenthood as part of their anti-abortion stance if elected to the state’s highest office.
Bob Vander Plaats and Rep. Rod Roberts, R-Carroll, announced such plans at a Saturday pro-life forum at Campus Baptist Church in Ames. They were joined by gubernatorial candidate Jon Narcisse, who is running as an independent.
Vander Plaats Speaks at Pro-Life Event in Ames
Apr 11, 2010
Four Republican candidates for state offices and one independent shared their views on abortion at the Campus Baptist Church Saturday in Ames.
The event was sponsored by the newly formed organization Heart of Iowa for L.I.F.E., which encouraged the 40-some attendees to take part in an upcoming 40-day vigil outside Planned Parenthood in Campustown.
State Rep. Rod Roberts, R-Carroll, Sioux City Republican Bob Vander Plaats and Des Moines independent Jonathan Narcisse, all candidates for governor, spoke at the church.
Vander Plaats Talk to The Iowa Republican About Yesterday’s Debate
Apr 08, 2010
TheIowaRepublican.com caught up with Terry Branstad and Bob Vander Plaats in Goose Lake last night. I asked them their reaction to the first gubernatorial debate and the main issue coming out of it, gambling.
Below are the videos.
Vander Plaats in GOP Debate: “I Won’t Need Three, Four, or Five Terms to Get the Job Done”
Apr 07, 2010
SIOUX CITY, Iowa – Republican gubernatorial candidate Bob Vander Plaats differentiated himself for his primary opponents today in a televised debate by setting out a clear, conservative agenda and former Gov. Terry Branstad was forced to defend his role introducing the gambling industry to the state.
During the debate at the KTIV-TV studios and co-sponsored by KWWL-TV and KTTC-TV, former Gov. Terry Branstad appeared to run from the gambling industry that he introduced to the state throughout his 16 years in office when he claimed Democratic Gov. Chet Culver’s proposal to open four casinos across the state is a plan to “gamble our way to prosperity.”
“I have to admit I was shocked that the man who signed the legislation that brought gambling to our state and oversaw the opening of 15 casinos would suddenly take exception with Chet Culver for proposing to do one-fourth of what he did,” Vander Plaats said after the debate. “He can call it an attack when someone raises the issue of his role in bringing gambling to our state, but the facts are the facts. His newfound belief that Iowa has enough gambling just doesn’t square with his record.”
Getting Personal with Republicans Running for Governor
Apr 07, 2010
KTIV
SIOUX CITY, Iowa (KTIV) - Together, they’re the three Republican candidates for governor of Iowa… trading shots about same-sex marriage, and Iowa schools. But, get beyond the politics. Terry Branstad, Rod Roberts and Bob Vander Plaats, are real people… as I found out when I talked to them, one-on-one, Wednesday afternoon.
Bob Vander Plaats has been here before… now running for governor for the third time. But, given the choice, he’d rather run around with his family. Bob Vander Plaats, (R) Candidate for Governor says “It’s Bob Vander Plaats with a baseball cap and blue jeans, probably chasing my kids out to a basketball game or some other sporting event.”
And, it’s that family that first motivated him to run for office… specifically his son, Lucas
Vander Plaats Talks of Leadership
Apr 06, 2010
ATLANTIC, Iowa—Taking a break from the usual campaign rhetoric, Bob Vander Plaats told a gathering of the Atlantic Rotary that strong leadership translates to success in everything.
Following the Rotary’s rules against self-promotion, the Sioux City business consultant and candidate for the Republican gubernatorial nomination didn’t give a campaign speech. Instead, he gave a brief biography before moving to the theme of leadership.
He described his time as a high school principal, as CEO of Opportunities Unlimited, a human services organization, and as president of MVP Leadership Inc., a consulting firm.
Vander Plaats Unveils Economic Development Strategy
Apr 06, 2010
ROCK RAPIDS, Iowa – Saying Iowa’s future depends on “the world knowing that we’re open for business,” Republican gubernatorial candidate Bob Vander Plaats on Monday unveiled his economic development blueprint for the state.
Citing the economic success of Israel detailed in the book, “The Start-Up Nation,” Vander Plaats said at the Lyon County Republican Dinner, “As governor, I’ll work to make Iowa the start-up capital of the world.”
He outlined a plan to capture the best features from business incubators around the world, encourage more military veterans to pursue entrepreneurial careers in Iowa, create a favorable tax and regulatory climate, welcome legal immigrants from various countries and aggressively market Iowa as a right-to-work state.
Vander Plaats Touts New Vision
Apr 05, 2010
INDEPENDENCE — As a crowded field of Republicans look to have the honor of taking on incumbent Iowa Gov. Chet Culver, the jockeying has begun among candidates. Among those seeking to set himself apart from his opponents is Bob Vander Plaats, a former educator, who visited Independence late this week. Vander Plaats insisted Culver’s days are numbered.
“I believe Culver is very vulnerable,” said Vander Plaats.
Food Fight Over Grades for Session
Apr 04, 2010
If legislative accomplishments were jelly beans, Gov. Chet Culver would see his Easter basket as overflowing with colorful, sweet candies.
He’s taking the “more is more” approach to touting the work of the Legislature, listing more than two-dozen initiatives during his end-of-session news conference last week.
He also put on his teacher hat, awarding the legislative session an A grade.
Testing Iowa’s Rightward Tilt
Apr 03, 2010
No longer the darling of the Right, Terry Branstad is vying for a fifth term as governor.
As he mounts a comeback bid for a fifth term as governor, Iowa Republican Terry Branstad, once the golden boy of Hawkeye conservatives, finds himself under attack from an unusual direction, the right. His fight for the GOP nomination has plenty of echoes from his party’s 2008 presidential caucuses, and the outcome could signal what sort of Republican presidential candidates will get the warmest receptions in Iowa during the 2012 campaign.
Vander Plaats Says He would Halt Same-Sex Marriage if Elected
Apr 02, 2010
On the eve of the anniversary of the Iowa Supreme Court’s decision to allow same-sex marriage, gubernatorial candidate Bob Vander Plaats said if elected he will sign an executive order his first day in office halting the practice.
The decree by the state’s highest court should be put on hold, he said, “until the people of Iowa’s voice is heard on that decision.”
Vander Plaats is one of three people vying for the Republican nomination. The other two candidates are former Gov. Terry Branstad and state Rep. Rob Roberts of Carroll.
Chuck Norris to Visit Davenport, Cedar Rapids, Des Moines, and Council Bluffs for Vander Plaats
Mar 29, 2010
DES MOINES – Internationally known actor and martial arts champion Chuck Norris will appear at events in Davenport, Cedar Rapids, Des Moines and Council Bluffs for Republican gubernatorial candidate Bob Vander Plaats during the final days of the primary election.
Vander Plaats’ campaign announced today that Norris, who writes a nationally syndicated column and is active in conservative and pro-family causes, will be in Iowa on June 4 and 5.
Vander Plaats Address College Republicans
Mar 28, 2010
The three Republicans seeking their party’s nomination to challenge Democratic Gov. Chet Culver in his bid for re-election visited Ames on Saturday to briefly discuss their campaign agendas.
The candidates — former Gov. Terry Branstad, of Boone; Sioux City businessman Bob Vander Plaats; and retiring State Rep. Rod Roberts, of Carroll — addressed a gathering of 70 students from state universities and private colleges at the annual conference of the Iowa Federation of College Republicans, which was sponsored this year by the conservative group Iowans for Tax Relief.
All three candidates voiced similar proposals for reforming education, slimming the state budget deficit and stimulating job growth through tax cuts.
Vander Plaats Woos Burlington
Mar 26, 2010
Republican gubernatorial candidate Bob Vander Plaats has big plans for Iowa if he can take Gov. Chet Culver’s seat in Des Moines.
He wants to get government out of the schools and keep Iowa a “right to work” state, which would prohibit employers from requiring union dues from employees.
Vander Plaats Sheds Some Light on His Views
Mar 26, 2010
MUSCATINE, Iowa — Who knew Bob Vander Plaats liked Barry Manilow?
Dan Irons of Wapello does. He and the Republican gubernatorial candidate discussed their mutual fondness for the pop crooner when Vander Plaats was in Muscatine Friday.
Vander Plaats, of Sioux City, was at the Pizza Ranch on his campaign stop in Muscatine.
Governor Canidate Bob Vander Plaats Speaking at Center For Active Seniors
Mar 25, 2010
Bob Vander Plaats - Republican Candidate for Governor of Iowa
Bob Vander Plaats will be speaking at CASI on Friday April 2nd, 2010 at 3:45PM.
LOCATION: CASI The Center for Active Seniors - 1035 W. Kimberly Rd. Davenport, IA 52806
Vander Plaats gives his vision for Iowa in Atlantic
Mar 23, 2010
Bob Vander Plaats hopes to be Iowa’s next governor and stopped in Atlantic Monday to talk about his vision for the state if he got that position.
First, he explained Iowa is exporting its best commodity: “our children.” He said one of his sons wants to move back to Iowa when he gets married and starts a family. When he comes back here, Vander Plaats said his son is going to need a job. However, Iowa is ranked 46th in having a “hospitable business climate.”
Vander Plaats Pleased to See Roberts Follow His Lead, Awaits Word from Branstad on Socialized Health
Mar 22, 2010
ATLANTIC – Noting that one of his opponents for the Republican gubernatorial nomination has followed his pledge to invoke the constitution’s 10th Amendment to protect Iowans from the government-run health care system approved by Congress Sunday night, Bob Vander Plaats today called on former Gov. Terry Branstad to tell Iowans whether he will “stand up or cave in to this federal power grab.”
Vander Plaats announced Thursday that, as governor, his legislative agenda would include a measure protecting Iowans from being forced into a federal health-care program.
Vander Plaats Makes Boone Campaign Stop
Mar 20, 2010
Bob Vander Plaats, a Republican gubernatorial candidate for Iowa, made a campaign stop in Boone Friday afternoon, where he spoke to a group of 20 supporters about his campaign vision in regards to several different areas at Godfather’s Pizza, 1720 Story St.
A former teacher and assistant basketball coach at Boone High School, Vander Plaats taught business, economics and entrepreneurial classes at the school, and bought his first house with his wife, Darla, in town.
Vander Plaats: If Obamacare Passes, I’ll Invoke Iowa’s 10th Amendment Rights
Mar 18, 2010
DES MOINES – With congressional Democrats pushing closer to passage of a government-run health care system, Republican gubernatorial candidate Bob Vander Plaats said today that he would invoke the Constitution’s 10th Amendment to protect Iowans from new federal mandates.
In remarks prepared for a campaign event with young professionals at Smokey Row coffeehouse in the Sherman Hill neighborhood, Vander Plaats said Iowa “needs a governor willing to stand against runaway federalism.”
Republicans Pledge To Ease Home School Restriction
Mar 16, 2010
Sioux City businessman Bob Vander Plaats said if elected, he will appoint representatives from the home school community to the state’s Board of Education.
Vander Plaats said the move would “symbolically, if nothing else, make sure this is about parental rights, not government control.”
“If we allow a Supreme Court to dictate what our freedoms are, how you educate your children is in jeopardy,” Vander Plaats said. “This is a freedom issue.”
With Three Debates Set the GOP Primary is About to Heat Up
Mar 16, 2010
In 85 days, Iowa Republicans will head out to the polls and select the candidate that they want to see go head-to-head with Governor Chet Culver in the general election this fall. Various public and private polls show that Governor Culver is in serious trouble, meaning that Republicans stand a great chance at winning the office.
Since last July, Terry Branstad has led Culver the polls by anywhere from 16 to 29 percent. Branstad’s chief primary opponent, Bob Vander Plaats, has also beat Culver in head-to-head polls since last fall, but by a lesser percentage. Even relatively unknown State Representative Rod Roberts polled well in a matchup between himself and Culver. Roberts trailed the incumbent Governor by only 5% in February, just outside of the poll’s margin of error.
Vander Plaats: Culver’s Mismanagement, Across-the-Board Cuts “Come Back to Bite Him” on Educat
Mar 15, 2010
SIOUX CITY – Republican gubernatorial candidate Bob Vander Plaats today criticized Gov. Chet Culver for “trying to play the hero on school funding when it’s his mismanagement that has largely caused the problem.”
Culver today threatened to veto a budget bill that “doesn’t include the funding Iowa’s schools deserve.” However, it was Culver’s across-the-board budget cut last year that has forced school districts to announce the layoffs of hundreds of teachers statewide while also increasing property taxes.
