Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds Announces No Re-election Bid for 2026

Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds announced she will not seek re-election in 2026, marking the first open race for the position in years. Reynolds, who has served since 2017, emphasized her love for the state in her announcement, noting her role in transforming Iowa into a Republican stronghold. Republican leaders praised her leadership, highlighting her focus on tax cuts and parental rights, and expressed interest in continuing her policies moving forward. Iowa GOP Chairman Jeff Kaufmann and Co-Chair Linda Upmeyer referred to her as a generational leader, while other GOP officials commended her impact on the state's political landscape. As Reynolds prepares to step down, her legacy of conservative governance is expected to shape the upcoming election. Despite her decision, many believe she will remain influential within the party.