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Iowa Senate Majority Leader will not seek re-election

News

September 16th, 2025 by Ric Hanson

(Des Moines, Iowa) – Iowa Republican Jack Whitver says he’s stepping down from his role as state Senate majority leader. He also announced he is not running for reelection in 2026. Whitver, who lives in Grimes, is 45-years-old. He represents Iowa Senate District 23, which includes parts of Dallas and Polk Counties. He was diagnosed last year with a brain tumor, and had been receiving radiation and drug therapy. Whitver has served in the Iowa Senate since 2011.

Whitver was reelected last November to serve as majority leader, a role he’s held since 2018. Iowa Senate Republicans will need to elect someone new to fill the position. It is not clear how soon that election will take place.

In making his announcement, Whitver said “I first started campaigning for the Iowa Senate hours after my oldest daughter was born. I ran because taxes were too high, and I wanted to make it easier to work, start a business and raise a family in Iowa. I believe I have accomplished my goals.  I am proud of the work we have accomplished in limiting government, controlling spending, reducing taxes and expanding the rights and freedoms of the people of this great state.”

“My oldest daughter is now driving and my three children are very active, making family life is busier than ever. I continue to battle a brain tumor and while progress remains positive, I still have a long way to go. My work in the Senate may be coming to a close, but my commitment to making Iowa the best state in the country will always be a part of my life.”

Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds said in a statement Tuesday evening, “Jack Whitver’s announcement today that he is stepping down as Senate Majority Leader and will not run for re-election is both admirable and bittersweet.

“Jack became Majority Leader in March 2018, in my first legislative session as Governor. From that moment, I saw in him a partner who did more than guide legislation—he made things happen. Together, our administration and the legislature embarked on one of the most consequential periods in modern Iowa history. It was under Jack’s leadership that we passed the largest income tax cuts in state history, reformed state government, protected the unborn, gave parents choice in their child’s education, and so much more.

Senator Jack Whitver (official photo)

“Those achievements did not happen by accident. They happened because Jack set a standard: work hard, stay focused on what matters to people, put principle into action, and never stop listening. He has been quietly bold, never seeking credit, but always delivering for Iowans. His influence has reshaped our state and given families more breathing room through tax relief, more confidence through responsible budgeting, and more certainty that their government is working for them—not the other way around. 

“Jack is the most transformative Senate Majority Leader Iowa has seen in the modern era—perhaps ever. His leadership will leave a legacy of stronger communities, more opportunity, and a better quality of life for all Iowans.

“On behalf of every hardworking person in our state, I want to say thank you, Jack—for your courage, your vision, your perseverance, and your integrity. More than that, thank you for being a husband, father, and friend who puts family first in a moment like this.  I join all Iowans in wishing Jack, Rachel, and their children peace, strength, and hope in the days ahead. As you focus on recovery and time together, know that we stand beside you and will continue to carry forward the work you have begun.”

Iowa GOP Chairman Jeff Kaufmann released the following statement in response to Iowa Senate Majority Leader Jack Whitver stepping down from leadership and not running for reelection in 2026:

“Jack Whitver has been a tremendous leader for our party and for the people of Iowa. Under his steady hand, Senate Republicans grew their majority to historic levels, making the Iowa Senate one of the strongest conservative chambers in the nation. Jack is a prolific campaigner, a principled legislator, and a conservative voice of reason at the Capitol.

He has helped usher in a new way of governance in Iowa, one that puts taxpayers first and ensures Iowa families come out on top. Beyond his achievements in politics and policy, Jack is a devoted husband, father, and friend. While his leadership will be missed at the Capitol, I am grateful he will be able to devote more time to his family, and I know his impact on Iowa will continue for years to come.”