The appointment today by Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds of an Acting Lieutenant Governor may have prevented a Constitutional showdown.
"I'm pleased that Governor Kim Reynolds has taken action today that would not alter the succession provision. That is the fundamental question, it is a Constitutional question, and she has complied with our opinion." Says Iowa Attorney General Tom Miller.
In naming Adam Gregg as her Acting Lieutenant Governor, Reynolds says: "As Governor, I will benefit by having Adam by my side. The people of Iowa will benefit from having a strong team at the top of state government."
In 1988 the Iowa Constitution's provision for line of succession to the Governor's office was revised. It says if the Lieutenant Governor is unable to take office, the President of the Iowa State Senate will Become Governor. But the Iowa Constitution doesn't specify that the Governor has the constitutional authority to appoint a Lieutenant Governor.
Miller says about the Gregg appointment as Acting Lieutenant Governor: "That's right. Adam Gregg will not be in the line of succession, the Senate President will be in the line of succession. Unless, or until a Constitutional Amendment is passed.
Miller says he would support a Constitutional Amendment giving the Governor that power.