The western Iowa Republican who was elected to be Iowa’s next secretary of state plans to commute to Des Moines from his home in Council Bluffs when he’s sworn into office. Matt Schultz defeated Democrat Michael Mauro in last week’s election.

“I’ve got two kids in school right now. Trying to sell a home and going through all of that would be difficult right now, so we’ll be commuting for a while and then we’ll see how that works out,” Schultz says. “That decision I’ll leave up to my wife.” 

Schultz is also shutting down his law practice.  “I’ve created a lot of relationships in the legal field here in Council Bluffs and my partner is a good friend of mine, so it’s definitely bitter sweet,” Schultz says. “But I’m really excited about this opportunity to serve Iowa.” 

Schultz has assembled a “transition team” to help him take over as secretary of state.  It will be led by former Iowa State wrestling coach Jim Gibbons, a Republican who ran for congress this spring.  The election’s chief in Story County and a woman who has worked for Republicans in the state senate will also help Schultz through the transition process. 

The cornerstone issue of Schultz’s campaign was his call to require Iowans to show a photo I.D. when they vote. “I have not had a chance to meet with the leaders of the legislature yet, but we’re working on that. That’s part of this transition and I have been touch with several legislators who are willing to sponsor a photo I.D. bill,” Schultz says. “It is definitely something we’re going to be putting forward in this first session.”

Schultz beat Michael Mauro (MAR-oh), the current secretary of state, by about 30,000 votes last Tuesday. Last Thursday, Governor-elect Terry Branstad said he was considering the defeated Democrat for a job in his administration. Schultz is raising no objection to that.

“Well, Michael’s a very respected man,” Schultz says. “Those are decisions for Terry Branstad to make.” 

Schultz was the only rookie candidate elected to statewide office last week.