Gov. Terry Branstad wants California businesses to consider setting up shop in Iowa.
Calling California a "happy hunting ground," Branstad said Monday he'll travel to the West Coast this week to try to convince companies to relocate. Branstad, a Republican, declined to name the businesses he'll be courting.
Branstad is set to travel to California on Tuesday and return Wednesday. He will meet with businesses that already have an Iowa presence, as well as those he'd like to attract. A spokeswoman for the Iowa Economic Development Authority said Branstad will be accompanied by two staffers and travel for all three will cost an estimated $2,500.
Democratic California Gov. Jerry Brown was critical of a recent effort by Republican Texas Gov. Rick Perry to lure California companies.
