Hawkeye Reporter

Several leadership changes have been announced in the Iowa Legislature as lawmakers step down from key positions and pursue new roles.

Senate Majority Leader Jack Whitver has stated he will not seek re-election in 2026 and is stepping down from his leadership role. In response, Senate Republicans held a closed-door election and selected Senator Mike Klimesh as the new Majority Leader.

In the Iowa House of Representatives, Rep. Bobby Kaufmann was chosen by Republican colleagues to serve as the new House Majority Leader after Rep. Matt Windschitl decided to leave the position. Windschitl is launching a campaign for the U.S. House of Representatives with plans to replace Congressman Randy Feenstra, who is running for Governor.

Rep. Shannon Lundgren has also announced her candidacy for Congress, seeking to succeed U.S. Rep. Ashley Hinson, who is pursuing a seat in the U.S. Senate. Additionally, Rep. Mike Sexton will be leaving the state legislature to join the U.S. Department of Agriculture within the Trump Administration.

These departures result in several vacant committee leadership roles, including chairs of the House Ways and Means, Commerce, and Agriculture committees. New appointments are expected soon.