GOP Rep. Randy Feenstra files paperwork for Iowa gubernatorial run

U.S. Rep. Randy Feenstra, a Republican from Iowa, has officially filed paperwork to run for Iowa governor in the upcoming 2026 election. Feenstra, who has been serving in the U.S. House since 2020, submitted the necessary paperwork for his gubernatorial campaign under the name “Feenstra for Governor” with the Iowa Ethics and Campaign Disclosure Board.

The decision to run for governor comes after current Republican Gov. Kim Reynolds announced last month that she would not seek a third term in 2026. Feenstra has been contemplating a run for governor ever since Reynolds made her announcement.

In a recent statement to reporters on April 23, Feenstra mentioned, “I’ll tell you right now, I’m focused on fulfilling and making sure that we get Trump’s agenda completed. 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.” Despite his intentions, Feenstra has not yet publicly declared his candidacy for governor.

The Republican primary in Iowa could potentially be competitive, with former state Rep. Brad Sherman being the only Republican candidate to have officially entered the race after launching his campaign in February. Other potential contenders include Iowa state Sen. Mike Bousselot, Iowa Attorney General Brenna Bird, and House Speaker Pat Grassley, who are all considering a run for governor.

On the Democratic side, Iowa Auditor Rob Sand has also filed paperwork to run in the state’s primary election. Feenstra is the only U.S. House member from Iowa exploring a gubernatorial bid, as his fellow GOP representatives Ashley Hinson, Mariannette Miller-Meeks, and Zach Nunn have all confirmed that they will not be running for governor.

Feenstra’s political career began in 2009 when he served as a state senator before being elected to the U.S. House in 2020, defeating incumbent U.S. Rep. Steve King in the Republican primary. Prior to his time in the state senate, Feenstra held the position of Sioux County treasurer from 2006 to 2008.

As the gubernatorial race in Iowa heats up, voters will be closely watching to see how Feenstra’s campaign unfolds and whether he will emerge as a strong contender in the 2026 election. Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story.