KDSN RADIO News
Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds Will Not Seek Reelection in 2026
DES MOINES, Iowa — Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds has revealed she will not be running for another term in 2026.
The announcement came early Friday through a video shared on her campaign’s social media platforms.
Reynolds, a Republican, first became governor in 2017 when then-Governor Terry Branstad stepped down to serve as U.S. Ambassador to China. She went on to win full terms in both 2018 and 2022.
Before her time in the governor’s office, Reynolds held a variety of public service roles. She served four terms as Clarke County Treasurer starting in 1994, was elected to the Iowa Senate in 2009, and became lieutenant governor in 2011.
In her message, Reynolds reflected on her journey from county government to the state’s highest office. “Serving as your governor has been the greatest honor of my life,” she said. “I never imagined the things we would accomplish together.”
After nearly a decade in the governor’s role—and over 30 years in public service—Reynolds said it’s time to focus on family. “Now, it’s time for me to be there for them,” she shared, referencing her parents, husband, daughters, and grandchildren.
Despite her decision not to run again, Reynolds emphasized that she is not stepping away just yet. “I’ll be working hard for you every single day until my term ends,” she said. “We have important work ahead—keeping our economy strong, supporting our families and farmers, defending our freedoms, and ensuring every Iowan has the opportunity to succeed.”
She also expressed confidence in the future of Iowa and her party. “Together, we have built a foundation of strong conservative leadership that will continue to serve this state well,” Reynolds said, adding her faith in the next generation of Republican leaders.
In closing, she thanked Iowans for their support over the years. “I could not have done this without you. Iowans have placed their trust in me, and I have done my best to honor that trust every day.”
Her message ended with a heartfelt farewell: “Thank you, Iowa. God bless you, and God bless the great state of Iowa.”
