Rep. Randy Feenstra (R-Iowa) filed paperwork Monday to run for Iowa governor in 2026, as multiple Republicans continue to weigh the opportunity to replace Gov. Kim Reynolds (R) when her term ends.
The Hill’s attempts to reach Feenstra and his campaign team were unsuccessful.
Feenstra, who was first elected to the House in 2020, has been openly mulling a gubernatorial bid since Reynolds announced on social media last month that she won’t seek a third full term.
“I’ll tell you right now, I’m focused on fulfilling and making sure that we get Trump’s agenda completed,” Feenstra told reporters after an April 23 event in Iowa. “However, I always want to do what’s best for our state, and I will continue to look at all aspects of what that looks like.”
Election handicappers at Sabato’s Crystal Ball have rated the 2026 race in Iowa “likely Republican” but noted “Republicans are playing defense” with no incumbent. A blistering GOP primary battle also could impact the outcome.
Other Republicans who have made steps toward running for governor include former Iowa state Rep. Brad Sherman, who kicked off his campaign for the GOP gubernatorial nomination in February, and Iowa state Sen. Mike Bousselot (R), who launched an exploratory committee last month.
Iowa Attorney General Brenna Bird and state House Speaker Pat Grassley, the grandson of longtime Sen. Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa), also are among Republicans who have expressed interest, The Des Moines Register reported in April.
Auditor Rob Sand, the only Iowa Democrat in statewide office, is seeking the Democratic gubernatorial nomination.
