Tuesday, April 10, 2007
Governor Culver Statement On Gene Meyer
(Des Moines) Below is a statement from Governor Chet Culver on Republican efforts to block Gene Meyer from confirmation as Commissioner of the Iowa Department Public Safety:
STATEMENT FROM GOVERNOR CHET CULVER:
"Tonight, Senate Republicans have unfortunately chosen partisanship over public safety. Playing partisan games with this important Public Safety nominee is reckless and irresponsible.
"Republicans and Democrats alike know that Gene Meyer is exceptionally qualified to be the next Commissioner of Public Safety. He has an unblemished, 35-year record in public service both in public safety and as mayor of West Des Moines. To this day, nobody disputes Mr. Meyer's qualifications.
"I have had several meetings with the Republican leadership, and Mr. Meyer has repeatedly offered to meet with Republicans to discuss any possible concerns. Never at any point did any of the alleged concerns they are now raising come up since I nominated Mr. Meyer back in January. Tying up the confirmation of such an important Public Safety nominee over 11th hour concerns that have come out of nowhere is unacceptable and disturbing. In this post-9/11 world, this office is more important than ever.
"Gene and I will continue to make ourselves available to answer any questions that may arise regarding his confirmation. I am confident Senate Republicans will put Iowans' safety above petty partisanship and confirm this qualified individual."