(Clinton) Rita Hart — farmer, former educator, and now chair of the Iowa Democratic Party — is leading an effort to strengthen the party’s organization and competitiveness statewide.
Hart became state party chair in January 2023, when Iowa Democrats were facing declining electoral success and organizational challenges. She said her frustration with the party’s performance led her to ask what changes were needed and ultimately encouraged her to run for chair.
Since taking the position, Hart has focused on strengthening the party financially, rebuilding its communications, data and organizing teams, and expanding grassroots involvement across all 99 counties. She has also emphasized recruiting and promoting strong candidates, particularly in rural areas where Democrats have struggled in recent elections.
She says recruiting candidates who can connect with voters and listen to their concerns on everyday issues will be key to improving Democratic performance in Iowa. She pointed to the cost of housing, child care and groceries, along with education and access to good-paying jobs as concerns she believes candidates need to address.
Hart believes that approach can help strengthen communities across Iowa by focusing on shared concerns and bringing people together, rather than deepening political divisions.
