In what’s shaping up to be a hard fought race in House District 90, Republican Stephen Burgmeier has received the endorsement of anti-gay rights organization Everyday America.

The race between Burgmeier and Democrat Curt Hanson to fill the seat left open when Democratic Rep. John Whitaker accepted an appointment to serve as the Iowa director of the Farm Service Agency could become a showdown between special interests and political parties on both sides, and it is seen by many as a blueprint for the general election battles that will take place in 2010.

Stephen Burgmeier (Photo: stephenburgmeier.com)

Stephen Burgmeier (Photo: stephenburgmeier.com)

The Iowa Independent has already reported that conservative group Iowans for Tax Relief is involved in the campaign already, with two members of its leadership team making up Burgmeier’s campaign organization.

The race also marks the first real challenge for the Republican Party of Iowa’s new leadership team. RPI chairman Matt Strawn has already sent out e-mails calling the district a “must win” for his party.

Everyday America’s endorsement should come as no surprise. While serving as a member of the Jefferson County Board of Supervisors, he introduced a resolution asking lawmakers to take a stand against same-sex marriage. The board passed the resolution unanimously, but did so after the legislature had already adjourned.

Gay rights group One Iowa issued an “Extreme Right Watch” about Burgmeier when he announced his intentions to run, saying he hopes to “undermine the Iowa Supreme Court’s unanimous decision that everyone in Iowa deserves equal protection under the law.” They also asked members to support Hansen’s candidacy.

Democrats are calling out their heavyweights as well, with U.S. Sen. Tom Harkin stumping for Hansen last month to help kick off his campaign.

Independent Douglas William Philips and Fourth of July Party member Dan Cesar will also be on the ballot for the special election scheduled for Sept. 1.