Former Iowa Governor Tom Vilsack has held many titles in his life, but he can now add Powerball winner to that list.

Governor Vilsack has been the Mayor of Mt. Pleasant, a state senator, Iowa governor and U.S. Secretary of Agriculture, but now he is $150,000 richer and a Powerball winner. Vilsack, who lives in Waukee, claimed his $150,000 winnings at the Iowa Lottery headquarters in Clive. He won from the drawing that happened on January 22nd.

According to our news partner, Local 4 News and the Iowa Lottery, Vilsack has some advice for other lottery players, "Check your numbers. It matters.” Governor Vilsack continued saying, “There are different ways to win. I didn’t realize that. I honestly didn’t realize you could win by not having all of the numbers. And so people sometimes walk away from some resources and some money when they don’t check their ticket.”

Vilsack bought his ticket at Hy-Vee located at 1005 E. Hickman Road in Waukee. Vilsack didn't check his ticket until about 10 days after he actually won.

Vilsack won his prize in the Powerball drawing on Jan. 22, when the game’s jackpot had grown to an estimated $347 million. But he said he didn’t check his ticket for several days.

After realizing he’d won $150,000, he shared the news with his wife, Christie, who like most people would believe anyone who told you this news, didn't believe him.

Governor Vilsack has plans on what he is going to with his new $150,000. He plans to give a little to his church, St. Boniface, some to his kids, and the rest to his banker to pay of some outstanding mortgage, according to Local 4 News and the Iowa Lottery.

Congrats to former Governor of Iowa Tom Vilsack and his family on their new found fortune!

 

 

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