(Des Moines, IA) — Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds is not seeking re-election in 2026. She made the announcement on social media this morning. Reynolds first served as a State Senator, before becoming Lieutenant Governor under former Governor Terry Branstad. She became Governor in 2017, and was re-elected twice.
Speaker Pat Grassley released the following statement in response:
“Governor Reynolds has been a bold leader for our state. She has shown remarkable courage in tackling challenging issues and always prioritized Iowans’ freedoms. I’m incredibly proud of all we’ve accomplished together over the last six sessions. No matter what chaos we saw in Washington, D.C. or from our blue-state neighbors, we’ve kept our heads on straight in Iowa. We’ve put parents back in the driver’s seat, passed historic tax cut after historic tax cut, and kept our common sense on social issues. As we look to the future, our state needs more of this strong leadership – someone who will keep Iowans’ freedoms at the forefront and partner with President Trump to keep Iowa strong.”
Iowa GOP Chairman Jeff Kaufmann and Co-Chair Linda Upmeyer released the following statement:
“Gov. Reynolds has been a generational leader for our state and party. Under her bold, conservative leadership, Iowa now sits as one of the best states in the entire country. Taxes are low, cash reserves are full, our freedoms defended, and Iowa’s future has never been brighter. I want to thank her for her friendship, service, and for being the leader Iowa needed. I know she is not done yet, and she will never stop being a leader in our party,” said Iowa GOP Chairman Jeff Kaufmann.
“Governor Reynolds is a fighter, and I was blessed to work alongside her to pass major legislation that transformed our state. Gov. Reynolds has left her mark on Iowa and our party, and we will be forever grateful for her service and leadership. Iowa’s future is bright because of the path Gov. Reynolds created,” said Iowa GOP Co-Chair Linda Upmeyer.
Senator Joni Ernst released the following statement:
“Kim Reynolds has been a tremendous governor. She has transformed Iowa with her bold, conservative leadership — putting parents first, cutting taxes, and supporting hardworking farmers and families in every corner of our state. Kim’s story is an inspiration to every Iowan. No matter the challenge, she has faced it head on with grace and grit. Kim is a fighter who always puts Iowa first. As her friend, it’s been a joy to watch Kim thrive as our governor. She has sacrificed so much to do what’s best for our state. I’m truly grateful for Kim’s selfless service to the people of Iowa. May God bless her and Kevin and their beautiful children and grandchildren.”
