News Local incumbents win in election; Ernst and Branstad make Iowa history

Republicans Dawn Pettengill (Iowa House District 75) and Todd Wiley (Benton County Supervisor) were among the victors in Tuesday's election, in which Iowa politicians reached two historic political milestones.

"I am looking forward to serving," said Wiley. "I’m also looking forward to being able to serve without having to campaign for a while.  Although it is nice to be able to get voter feedback like this after only one year of service.  I appreciate the support I have received from the voters and everyone who invested in my campaign, wrote letters to the editor, put up yard signs, etc.  The county and state republican organizations were very effective in this election. I hope we can continue to work together effectively in the supervisor’s office."

Wiley had won a special election last November to fill the vacancy left by Jason Sanders. Wiley knew that if he won in 2013, he would have to run again in 2014. This year's election means he won't be on the ballot again until 2017.     

State history made

Joni Ernst became the first female elected to the U.S. Senate; Iowa had been one of only two states that had never elected a woman as Governor or to Congress (Mississippi is the other). 

With his sixth win as Governor, Terry Branstad has become the longest-serving goveror of any American state. 

There were many uncontested local races. County Attorney David Thompson, County Recorder Lexa Speidel and County Treasurer Kelly Geater all ran unopposed. 

Click HERE for complete unofficial election results. The county results become official after a canvass by the Benton County Board of Supervisors.