Branstad the Champ - or IS he?

This is sure to get media play all over Iowa today: the University of Minnesota's Smart Politics declares Terry Branstad the Longest. Serving. Governor. Ever.

But scroll down to the fine print:

Excludes pre-U.S. Constitutional gubernatorial service as well as gubernatorial service in U.S. territories.

Ohh. That's like not counting Cy Young's 19th century pitching wins. Changes things a bit. Turns out the champ is Clinton.

Just spent amazing time with Colbert!Is he sane? He is cool! #cgiu
— Billy Jeff Clinton (@PrezBillyJeff) April 6, 2013

No, not that one. George Clinton.



Unfortunately, not THAT George Clinton. THIS George Clinton:

July 9 1777, New York elects Brigadier General George Clinton as the first governor of the independent state of New York. Clinton would go on to become New York's longest-serving governor, as well as the longest-serving governor in the United States, holding the post until 1795, and again from 1801 to 1804. In 1805, he was elected vice president of the United States, a position he held under Presidents Thomas Jefferson and James Madison, until his death in 1812.

There's some speculation that Branstad wants to seek re-election in part to top this record, but I suggest that he accept the math of Smart Politics and retire as Modern Era Champ, and go partyin' on the Mothership. Bow wow wow yippy yo yippy yay.