I was happy to be LIVE from the State Capitol once again today as Governor Kim Reynolds delivered her first Condition Of The State speech as Iowa's first female governor.
Following the speech, I walked around the Capitol to chat with insiders in regard to their reactions.
One section of the speech inspired the same reaction: "surprised."
It was the section in which Governor Reynolds spoke boldly about sexual harassment.
Condition Of The State speeches are largely policy-driven - "I propose to the legislature..." and "I call on the legislature to act on..."
Rarely does the Governor use the speech as a bully pulpit on an issue which requires no legislation or regulation.
But from the outset, Governor Reynolds acknowledged the responsibility of being a role model to Iowans, and particularly women.
Capitol insiders probably expected that she would leave it at that.
But she didn't.
Throughout history, sexual harassment has been a stain on our culture, a destructive force—in politics, media and entertainment, in workplaces large and small—in all facets of life. And it must stop.
I commend the number of women who have found the courage to speak out.
As a woman, a mother of three girls, a grandmother, wife, sister, and daughter, I understand we’re at an unprecedented moment in time. I also understand that this is not a partisan issue. It can’t be fixed by legislation or rule-making alone. You cannot legislate kindness or respect or morality. They must be taught. And that means the solution starts with every individual, man or woman. It’s about showing respect to others. It’s about character and decency. And it’s about changing the culture once and for all.
All of us in public office must ensure not only a safe workplace but serve as a model for the public and private sector. What we do here matters. Iowans are watching. We can’t change behavior everywhere, but we have an obligation to lead and, as long as I am Governor, we’re going to. Iowans are good people. They’re humble people. And no matter our differences on policy and politics, we must always strive to reflect the goodness of those we represent.
It says a lot about the state of our national politics that it is considered bold to acknowledge that a public official is a role model. And I am sure Governor Reynolds will be called upon repeatedly to comment on President Trump's behavior. Given the standard she has articulated, she should NOT be ashamed to distance herself from the poor behavior of the President or other public officials.
The larger public asks for authenticity, not blind fealty.