Branstad's move to China means Iowa's first female governor

DES MOINES, Iowa (AP) — The likely departure of the nation's longest-serving governor to become U.S. ambassador to China means Iowa could soon be led by its first female governor, just as the state shifts to full Republican control of its Legislature.

Reynolds, 57, was a first-term state senator when Branstad chose her to run as his lieutenant governor.

"Watching her take such a role leading the state just as lieutenant governor ... she is more than prepared to step into those shoes as governor," said Sen. Amy Sinclair, the sole female Republican in the state Senate.

Before Trump offered him the ambassadorship, Branstad indicated he planned to complete his current gubernatorial term and hadn't ruled out another four-year term.

Iowa Republicans continue to lead the way elevating women to public office, said House Speaker Linda Upmeyer, who made history earlier this year when she was formally elected as the first female speaker in the state chamber.

Branstad's office did not immediately release details on what a transition plan would look like, but it's possible he could still be governor when lawmakers return to the Capitol on Jan. 9.