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. [Read more…]

Former TV anchor to make bid for open state senate seat

Democrats today revealed former TV anchor Liz Mathis, a well-known name in eastern Iowa, is hoping to run in the special election to replace State Senator Swati Dandekar, a Democrat from Marion who resigned so Governor Brasntad could appoint her to the Iowa Utilities Board.  The resignation set up a high-stakes battle between the parties, as a Republican victory in the district would pitch the Iowa Senate into a 25-25 split.  Republicans and Democrats in the Marion area will soon hold nominating convention to select the two nominees who will face off in the November 8 special election.

Read Mathis’ news release below:

Liz Mathis announced today that she will seek the Democratic nomination for Iowa Senate District 18 in the upcoming special election to fill the seat vacated by Sen. Swati Dandekar of Marion.

“People all over are trying to get back on their feet from this lingering national recession,” Mathis said. “They need jobs and they need stability for their families, and all we’re getting from our government is gridlock. It must change. I pledge to work with Democratic and Republican legislators and Governor Branstad to make a difference for the people in District 18.” [Read more…]