In a video released on social media Friday, Gov. Kim Reynolds (R-IA) announced that she would not be running for reelection in 2026.
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NewsTranscript
00:00Serving as your governor has been the greatest honor of my life, an opportunity that not
00:05so long ago I never could have imagined.
00:08When I first entered public service in the Clark County Treasurer's Office, I never expected
00:13that one day I would have the privilege of leading this great state, and I never would
00:19have imagined the things that we would accomplish together.
00:23But Iowa is a place where anything is possible, and I am forever grateful for the trust that
00:28you have placed in me.
00:30Today I want to share a personal decision with you, one that was not made lightly, but comes
00:36with a full heart and a deep sense of gratitude.
00:40After a lot of thought, prayer, and conversations with my family, I have decided that I will
00:46not seek re-election in 2026.
00:49This wasn't an easy decision, because I love this state and I love serving you.
00:55But when my term ends, I will have had the privilege of serving as your governor for almost 10 years,
01:02and before that, as Lieutenant Governor and State Senator.
01:06This public service has been an incredible journey, one that I wouldn't trade for anything.
01:12But as Iowans know, family is everything.
01:16And through the years, my parents and my husband Kevin, our daughters and our grandchildren, have
01:22stood by my side, supporting me through every challenge and every victory.
01:28And now it's time for me to be there for them.
01:31To help them through the next stage of life.
01:35To watch every track meet and basketball game.
01:38To see them grow before they're all grown.
01:41Now that doesn't mean that I'm slowing down just yet.
01:44I'll be working hard for you every single day until my term ends.
01:48We have important work ahead, keeping our economy strong, supporting our families and farmers,
01:55defending our freedoms, and ensuring that every Iowan has the opportunity to succeed.
02:02I'm more energized than ever to finish what we started, and to leave Iowa in the strongest
02:08possible position for the future.
02:11And speaking of the future, I have no doubt that Iowa and our Republican Party will remain
02:17in great hands.
02:18Together, we have built a foundation of strong conservative leadership that will continue
02:25to serve this state well.
02:27I've seen firsthand the passion and dedication of so many leaders.
02:32And I am confident that the next generation will continue to build on our success.
02:38Iowa is a special place, and it's because of our people and values.
02:43The hard work, resilience, and the sense of community that define us.
02:48That is what makes Iowa exceptional.
02:52To all of you who have supported me, pushed me, and worked alongside of me, a heartfelt thank
02:58you.
02:59I could not have done this without you.
03:01My friends have placed their trust in me, and I have done my best to honor that trust
03:06every day.
03:08The road ahead is bright, and I will always be cheering for this state and its people.
03:14So thank you Iowa, God bless you, and God bless the great state of Iowa.