Wednesday was a difficult day for The American Independent News Network, which is the larger entity that operates The Iowa Independent. Our chief executive and founder announced two of our sister sites would close and their content would be moved to The American Independent.
A recently introduced bill could have far-reaching impact on the U.S. sugar industry, including American Crystal Sugar, a farmer-owned cooperative that locked out 1,300 Midwest workers on Aug. 1.
The chairman for Herman Cain’s Iowa effort says the campaign “relied more on the word of farmers than Washington regulators” in deciding to run an ad containing claims the Environmental Protection Agency says are false.
The Iowa Senate will remain under the control of a slim 26-25 Democratic majority when it reconvenes in January 2012.
U.S. Rep. Mike Pence, R-Ind., stepped down from his position as the House Republican Conference Chair on Wednesday — the No. 3 position in GOP House leadership.
“As we consider new opportunities to serve Indiana and our nation in the years ahead, I have come to realize that it may not be possible to complete an entire term as Conference Chairman,” Pence said in a letter to colleagues. “As such, I think it would be more appropriate for me to step aside now, especially since there are other talented men and women in our Conference who could do the job just as well or better.”
Rep. Jeb Hensarling, R-Texas, and Rep. Michele Bachmann R-Minn., have already thrown their hats into the ring for Republican Conference Chair. On Bachmann, Iowa’s Steve King said he is, “100 percent on board.” This signals the start of an intense battle between traditional Republicans and the insurgent tea party movement.
However, with the news of Pence stepping down, it is clear that Pence is eying higher office — whether looking toward the gubernatorial election in Indiana or a possible presidential run. Pence visited Iowa last month for the Iowa Faith & Freedom Coalition dinner, trying to rally support for a GOP takeover of Capitol Hill in Washington.
“Some people have talked to us about serving in other positions or seeking higher office, and what I’ve told people is that we’re going to stay completely focused on winning back a conservative majority on Capitol Hill on Nov. 2,” he said. “We’ll let the future take care of itself.”
Now that Republicans control the House of Representatives, Pence is likely to announce some sort of bid — presidential or otherwise — in the coming weeks and months.
Do you know where to vote on Election Day? Do you know what to bring with you? Get comprehensive voter information for your state here.
Sign up for our email newsletter