Context:

Randy Feenstra, a U.S. Representative from Iowa, has filed paperwork to run for the state's gubernatorial seat in the 2026 election, seeking to replace Governor Kim Reynolds, who announced she would not run for a third term. Feenstra, who first joined the U.S. House in 2020 after defeating incumbent Steve King, has not yet publicly announced his campaign but is focused on pursuing policies aligned with former President Trump's agenda. The Republican primary race in Iowa is shaping up to be competitive, with former state Rep. Brad Sherman officially in the race, and others like state Sen. Mike Bousselot and Attorney General Brenna Bird expressing interest. Iowa Auditor Rob Sand has entered the Democratic primary, and Feenstra remains the only U.S. House member from Iowa considering the gubernatorial run, as other representatives have ruled out candidacies. Feenstra's political background includes serving as a state senator since 2009 and previously as Sioux County treasurer, providing him with significant state-level experience in governance.

Dive Deeper:

• Randy Feenstra, a Republican Congressman, has officially filed paperwork to enter the 2026 Iowa gubernatorial race, a move initiated following Governor Kim Reynolds's decision not to seek a third term. His campaign, named 'Feenstra for Governor,' is now registered with the Iowa Ethics and Campaign Disclosure Board.

• Feenstra, first elected to the U.S. House in 2020, is known for aligning closely with former President Trump's policy agenda, which he emphasized as a priority in his potential gubernatorial campaign.

• The Iowa GOP primary is anticipated to be highly competitive, with former state Rep. Brad Sherman being the only official candidate so far, but potential candidates such as state Sen. Mike Bousselot, Attorney General Brenna Bird, and House Speaker Pat Grassley are showing interest.

• Though Feenstra has yet to make a formal public announcement, his entry into the race adds to a growing list of high-profile Republicans considering a bid, while Iowa Auditor Rob Sand has filed to compete in the Democratic primary.

• Feenstra is the sole U.S. House member from Iowa contemplating a gubernatorial run, with fellow Republican representatives Ashley Hinson, Mariannette Miller-Meeks, and Zach Nunn having opted out of the race.

• Before serving in Congress, Feenstra gained extensive political experience as a state senator from 2009 and earlier as Sioux County treasurer, roles that have equipped him with valuable insights into state governance.

• Feenstra’s potential candidacy could significantly impact Iowa's political landscape, especially given his intent to continue advancing policies reflective of Trump's agenda, which may resonate with the state's Republican base.