DES MOINES, I.A. (KELO AM) Political history was made Wednesday in Iowa.
Lt. Governor Kim Reynolds became Iowa's first woman Governor, replacing Terry Branstad.
From waiting tables and working at Hy-Vee to Governor, Reynolds said her life story helped prepare her for the new challenges ahead.
"In this state we grew up learning the value of the dollar and not to waste it, a lesson I intend to apply every day as your Governor," said Reynolds in her speech in Des Moines.
Just before Reynolds stepped in, Branstad stepped out. He officially resigned as Governor and was immediately sworn in as President Trump's ambassador to China.
"There's no better job in the world to be the governor of the state that you love, but sometimes we are called to serve in ways we never imagined, And now I have pleased to present my letter of resignation as I prepare for this exciting new adventure...." proclaimed Brandstand before taking the ambassador's oath, with his wife holding the bible.
Branstad was the longest serving Governor in U.S. history. serving from 2011 to 2017, and earlier from 1983 to 1999.