GOP Gov. Reynolds Says ‘Family Comes First’ in Decision Not to Seek Re-Election

Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds made it official on Friday: she will not pursue another term in office.

Initially, Reynolds had planned to run for a third term, but over the weekend, she shared that she began rethinking whether she could fully commit to the job through the start of 2031 if re-elected.

Reynolds, who will celebrate her 66th birthday in early August, expressed that she’s valued her time as governor. However, she made it clear that once her current term concludes in 2027, she intends to return home. Her gubernatorial seat will be up for grabs in the 2026 election.

“This wasn’t an easy decision, because I love this state and I love serving you,” Reynolds said in a video posted online. “But, when my term ends, I will have had the privilege of serving as your governor for almost 10 years.”

The governor cited the strong support of her family throughout her time in office and said it’s now her turn to support them.

Her husband, Kevin Reynolds, was diagnosed with lung cancer last year. In January, Reynolds reported that his cancer remained in remission.

Reflecting on her time in office, Reynolds told reporters she’s “really proud” that policies she advocated—like tax cuts and state-backed education savings accounts for private schooling—are now established law. Still, she believes stepping away is the right call.

She expressed full confidence in the future of both Iowa and the Republican Party, stating there’s a “foundation of strong conservative leadership that will continue to serve this state well,” and added she has “no doubt that Iowa and our Republican Party will remain in great hands.”

After her announcement, Iowa Republican officials praised Reynolds’ record, highlighting her accomplishments in workforce development and tax reform.

“Taxes are low, cash reserves are full, our freedoms defended, and Iowa’s future has never been brighter,” said Iowa GOP Chairman Jeff Kaufmann in a statement.

Senator Chuck Grassley echoed that praise, writing, “Gov. Kim Reynolds is an outstanding leader for Iowa. She has delivered historic tax cuts for hardworking families including no tax on retirement income, strengthened Iowa’s workforce, championed biofuels and the farm economy, empowered families with school choice for their kids’ education, and so much more.”

He added, “Iowa voters sent a strong mandate, building on resounding victories for Republicans in the statehouse and gubernatorial races in 2018 and 2022. Republicans from the grassroots are united more than ever before to lead our state to prosperity and opportunity for generations yet to come. I have no doubt Iowans will re-elect Republicans up and down the ticket in 2026. We are hungrier than ever to keep Iowa moving in the right direction and will outwork anyone and everyone to fight for our values, our liberties, and our freedoms.”

Grassley also offered a personal note, saying, “Barbara and I thank Gov. Reynolds for her friendship, leadership, and service to the people of Iowa. She is an incredible role model and mentor to many. We wish her and Kevin the very best for years and years to come.”

Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig, who was appointed by Reynolds in 2018, praised her as a steadfast advocate for rural Iowa and agriculture.

“Gov. Kim Reynolds has been an unwavering champion for Iowa agriculture, our farmers, and rural communities,” Naig said. “She will stand among the most successful and impactful leaders in our state’s history. From cutting taxes on hard-working Iowans and streamlining state government to expanding access to biofuels and giving parents a choice in their child’s education, her legacy is that of a leader who always kept her focus on enhancing freedom and making Iowa more prosperous for all.”

Naig concluded, “As she concludes this final term, I know she will continue to confidently lead while adding victories for Iowans to her long list of accomplishments. I join with countless others who will miss her passionate and enthusiastic leadership, and I extend my heartfelt thanks for everything she has done to serve Iowans. Jaime and I wish her, Kevin, and the whole family well in her next chapter.”