Iowa’s rightward trend over the past decade has continually crushed Democrats’ hopes. In 2022, Democratic Rep. Cindy Axne’s loss left the party completely locked out of the delegation. And their attempts to oust GOP Reps. Zach Nunn and Mariannette Miller-Meeks fell short last November.
But 2026 could provide better opportunities. State Auditor Rob Sand — the only Democrat who holds statewide office — is likely to run for the state’s open governorship, giving the party a strong candidate at the top of the ticket. And Nunn and Miller-Meeks are expected to face serious challenges once again from Democrats. Even GOP Rep. Ashley Hinson, who’s won reelection by double-digit margins over the past two election cycles, might need to play more defense next year.
Meanwhile, the open governor’s race has also drawn interest from GOP Rep. Randy Feenstra, who represents Iowa’s most conservative U.S. House district. The 4th District could host a competitive Republican primary if Feenstra decides to run for governor.
IA-01: Mariannette Miller-Meeks (R) - Southeast: Davenport, Iowa CityToss Up. For most candidates in competitive races, their top
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