Donald J. Trump visited Iowa during his Thank You America tour. Trump will visit states that the Republicans flipped in the 2016 election like North Carolina, Iowa, Florida, Michigan, Pennsylvania, Wisconsin and possibly a few others on the way.

This thank you tour is not the only thing Trump has been doing since his victory on November 8th. Trump is quickly filling cabinet positions for his incoming administration. Trump’s team is well ahead schedule if you compare his timing of picks to recent presidents.

One pick definitely sticking out to Iowans this week as Trump’s announcement at his rally that Governor Terry Branstad will be moving to China as Ambassador for the United States. Trump held Branstad in high regards saying, “If it wasn’t for him I probably wouldn’t be President-Elect.” Trump continued his speech before introducing Branstad to the stage as, “one of the most important relationships we must improve, and we have to improve, is our relationship with China.”  He also said, “He knows the people of China for so many years… You have a very special man. I want to tell you officially- the man I have chose as our ambassador to China, is the man who knows China and likes China…. and knows how to deliver results, and he will deliver results, just like he has been delivering results for 23 years for the farmers and the people of Iowa. He has been on six trade missions to China and is highly respected by all of the Chinese officials.   I am now honored to welcome to the stage, our next Ambassador to China, your great Governor- Terry Branstad.”

Branstad told the crowd he was honored to serve Iowans and the American people in this new way. Branstad will leave the legacy of the longest serving Governor in the history of the United States and will leave that to Lt. Governor Kim Reynolds who will create her own legacy by becoming the first ever female governor of Iowa. Reynolds has told reporters that she is ready to assume the office of Governor. If Reynolds decides to continue her time as Governor, her next election will be in 2018, giving her plenty of time to show the people of Iowa her ability to govern.

Branstad will likely assume his new role early of next year. The United States Senate must approve Branstad. With nothing looking to be in the way to hinder his nomination, Iowa will most likely see its first female governor in 2017.