Republican gubernatorial candidate Terry Branstad and his lieutenant governor choice Kim Reynolds made a campaign stop in Knoxville Thursday. Around 35 people attended the town hall event at the National Sprint Car Hall of Fame and Museum where Branstad spoke about what he feels are necessary changes in Iowa, including higher standards in education, a balanced budget and more jobs. He then introduced Reynolds who he says will be a great lieutenant governor because of her energy, work ethic and enthusiastic personality. Reynolds says she is very excited about her ticket with former governor Branstad and will continue work hard to represent rural Iowa at the capital.

Republican Marion County Attorney candidate Ed Bull asked former governor Branstad what he thought could be accomplished if Republicans do not win the majority in the house and senate. Branstad stated that he believes with the number of quality candidates in this year’s election he believes Republicans can win every state office in November and expects the party to pick up between 10-12 seats in the house to win the majority.

Knoxville Mayor Don Zoutte asked Reynolds and Branstad what they plan to do to grow rural Iowa instead of just pushing Iowans to move to larger cities. Reynolds says she believes there needs to be someone who is willing to be engaged and involved in state government and strongly represent the rural communities and stand up for them at the capital. Branstad added that he and Reynolds are committed to represent all Iowans and not just those in Polk County.