The latest on state senate seat drama

Here’s the Radio Iowa story about when the two parties will hold nominating conventions (quick version: GOP on 9.22/Dems on 9.28) and about who the potential candidates are for the open state senate seat in the Linn County area.  Liz Mathis, a former TV anchor in the area, wants to run, as a Democrat.  Former US Attorney Matt Dummermuth, a Republican, wants to run in the district, too.  Read about him below.

ROBINS – Former United States Attorney and current small businessman Matt Dummermuth today announced his candidacy for the Republican nomination for Iowa Senate District 18.  The seat is open as a result of the recent resignation of Senator Swati Dandekar.  Her remaining one-year term will be filled in a special election on November 8.

“Now more than ever, Iowa needs genuine leaders who are not afraid to think outside the box and tackle tough issues in a principled, conservative manner,” Dummermuth said. “I want to use my extensive government experience and small business background to help Iowa become an even better place to grow a business, find a job and raise a family. The state should help foster such an environment by effectively and efficiently carrying out its essential responsibilities, limiting the reach and size of government beyond its core functions, and protecting Iowans’ economic, political and religious liberties in the process.”

Dummermuth’s small business experience involves starting a new law office and practice, along with active involvement since childhood in his family’s farming business. His government experience includes stints in public service in all three branches of the federal government and in Iowa’s executive and legislative branches. His most recent public service was as U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Iowa from 2007 to 2009, leading an office of 60 employees, including 26 attorneys in prosecuting federal crimes and handling civil matters in the District, which includes Linn County.

“In today’s uncertain economic climate and hyper-partisan political atmosphere, the state would benefit by having more elected officials who are effective problem-solvers focused on creating a stable and sustainable government, rather than those who excel at ratcheting up rhetoric, making empty promises, and attacking opponents, Dummermuth said.”

Dummermuth is an Iowa native who resides in Robins with his wife and three young kids.  He earned his B.S. in engineering at Iowa State University and his J.D. at Harvard Law School. He practices law in Cedar Rapids as a partner with the law firm of Whitaker Hagenow GBMG.