Kim Reynolds, Iowa's first female governor, has decided not to run for re-election in 2026, marking the conclusion of her impactful tenure in the state.
This retirement decision opens the field for a fierce gubernatorial race among potential Republican and Democratic candidates eager to shape Iowa’s future, as the Washington Examiner reports.
Reynolds has governed Iowa since 2017, initially stepping into the role after Terry Branstad was appointed as the U.S. ambassador to China. Throughout her administration, Reynolds has implemented notable policies that have left a lasting imprint on the state. From tax reforms that positioned Iowa among the U.S.’s leaders with the sixth-lowest income tax to passionate educational initiatives, her influence has been far-reaching.
Under Reynolds's leadership, education in Iowa experienced significant change, particularly with her 2023 endorsement of universal school choice. This plan allows taxpayer-funded scholarships to cover private school expenses, revamping the state's educational landscape. On social issues, she enforced restrictions on abortion access and adjusted the civil code to exclude gender identity protections.
The backdrop to Reynolds's tenure has been the fluctuating political climate of the United States, now under the leadership of President Donald Trump for a second time. While she maintained a strong political presence, her endorsement of Ron DeSantis in the 2024 election proved controversial, resulting in a drop in her approval ratings to 48%.
The announcement of her retirement was emotionally delivered, with Reynolds addressing the personal nature of her decision. She expressed a desire to spend more time with family but vowed to remain dedicated to her duties until her term concludes. "Today, I want to share a personal decision with you, one that was not made lightly but comes with a full heart and a deep sense of gratitude," she stated.
Reynolds's retirement has set the stage for a competitive race to fill her role, with numerous Republicans and Democrats showing interest in the governorship. Among the Republicans, notable figures such as Representatives Ashley Hinson and Randy Feenstra have emerged as potential contenders. Both have expressed a keen interest in pursuing the office, positioning themselves as successors capable of extending Reynolds’s conservative agenda.
Ashley Hinson praised Reynolds as the "best governor in America" and acknowledged her influence, stating, "Iowa has been blessed by her leadership, and I have been blessed by her friendship." Hinson emphasized the importance of a governor who can further Reynolds's accomplishments and collaborate with President Trump to elevate Iowa.
Similarly, Randy Feenstra is evaluating how to continue serving Iowa effectively, according to his spokesman, Billy Fuerst. Meanwhile, Representatives Mariannette Miller-Meeks and Zach Nunn, whose congressional seats will be competitive in the upcoming elections, are also being considered for candidacy. Both praised Reynolds, with Nunn labeling her as an inspiration, particularly highlighting her contributions to combating issues such as human trafficking and budget balancing.
On the Democratic Party side, figures like Rob Sand and potentially Deidre DeJear are viewed as frontrunners poised to challenge for the governorship. Democrats see the upcoming midterm elections as an advantageous opportunity to gain ground in a state historically receptive to midterm shifts. The focus will be on constructing a viable platform capable of resonating with Iowa's electorate.
Beyond the gubernatorial race, there are whispers in political circles that other influential Republicans, such as Attorney General Brenna Bird, might consider taking a shot at either the governor's office or a senatorial bid against Joni Ernst. This uncertain landscape promises a dynamic election season filled with potential shifts in Iowa’s political makeup.
Nearing the end of her term, Reynolds remains focused on her responsibilities, assuring the people of Iowa that her dedication will not wane. "Now it’s time for me to be there for them," she said, referring to her family, while also asserting, "That doesn’t mean I’m slowing down just yet. I’ll be working hard for you every single day until my term ends."
With Reynolds's departure, Iowa prepares for a political transition that is anticipated to be charged with competitive and strategic campaigning. The state stands at a crossroads, ready to welcome new leadership that will govern amid evolving political, social, and economic challenges.
