(Des Moines) Governor Kim Reynolds has announced that a special election for Iowa Senate District 16 will be held on Tuesday, December 30, 2025. The election follows the passing of State Senator Claire Celsi, who died on October 6, 2025.
Senator Celsi was first elected in 2018 and served on multiple legislative committees during her tenure, including as ranking member of the Senate Government Oversight Committee. Senate District 16 includes portions of West Des Moines, Clive, and Windsor Heights.
The special election is being called in accordance with Iowa Code section 69.14, which authorizes the governor to set the date for elections to fill legislative vacancies.
Governor Reynolds issued the official proclamation as follows:
Special Election Proclamation
WHEREAS, the office of State Senator for Iowa Senate District 16 became vacant due to the death of Senator Claire Celsi on October 6, 2025;
NOW, THEREFORE, I, Kimberly K. Reynolds, Governor of the State of Iowa, by the authority vested in me under Iowa law, do hereby proclaim that a special election to fill this vacancy shall be held on:
Tuesday, December 30, 2025
All eligible voters in Iowa Senate District 16 are encouraged to participate. The County Commissioners of Elections in Dallas and Polk Counties will provide official notice and conduct the election in accordance with Iowa Code section 39.6.
