With knuckles raw from knocking, ears red from calling, and stomachs unhappy from the diet associated with a political campaign, volunteers from across the state watched the special election in house district 90 come to a close. Their efforts helped elect tireless candidate Curt Hanson to the Iowa House of Representatives last night.

Governor Culver released this statement:

“Lieutenant Governor Judge and I want to congratulate Curt Hanson on his win tonight, and we look forward to working with him in the legislature in 2010. We also want to recognize Stephen Burgmeier and his local supporters for running a strong campaign.

“This election was important because voters in District 90 saw through the attempts by outside organizations to spread misinformation about our state. That’s because Iowans know the facts: the budget is balanced; Iowa’s fiscal health is strong; our cash reserves are high; we are the 4th best state in which to do business; and we have the 8th fastest growing economy. I’m glad voters in Southeast Iowa are sending Curt Hanson to Des Moines to work with legislative leaders and me in our effort to create good jobs, strengthen our economy, and keep moving Iowa forward.”

IDP Chair Michael Kiernan had this to say:

“I congratulate Curt Hanson on a successful campaign. His was a local campaign about local issues, and it is not surprising he was successful. Curt will make an excellent addition to the Democratic majority in the Iowa House. Congratulations to Speaker Murphy, Majority Leader McCarthy and the staff of the Iowa Democratic Party, for their outstanding effort and teamwork, and the victory that has followed.

“Democrats have been successful in the last two election cycles and tonight because we have recruited great candidates, followed through on the promises we’ve made and are governing the state responsibly.

“We will continue to build upon this strong organization and team approach as we prepare for statewide elections next fall. Tonight’s results don’t change our strategy for 2010. Tomorrow we will get back to work on candidate recruitment, fundraising and organizing. We have every reason to expect continued success.”

All of the staff and volunteers should be proud today. Hanson’s campaign was dramatically outspent with out of state special interests dumping almost $90,000 in a single day.

We at the Iowa Democratic Party wish Curt and his wife Diane our congratulations and look forward to working with Curt in the next legislative session.