Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds Won’t Run Again—Here’s How Iowa Agriculture Reacted

Iowa Republican Governor Kim Reynolds announced on social media Friday that she will not be seeking another term in the farm state’s lead office. Reynolds ascended to the position of governor in 2017 after then-Gov. Terry Branstad took a job with the first Trump Administration as ambassador to China.

Reynolds helped introduce the first E15 Access Standard in the U.S. in 2022, a law which enabled Iowans access to ethanol at a reduced price to regular gas. She also was involved in efforts to restrict foreign ownership of farmland, signing a bill into law in April 2024. 

Reynolds’ announcement brought reactions from many agricultural groups in Iowa as well as the state’s secretary of agriculture. Responses were positive and praised Reynolds for a commitment to biofuels and the state’s farm economy. 

Senators

Sen. Chuck Grassley

An Iowa Republican, Grassley is a member of the Senate Ag Committee and has been in the Senate since 1981.

“Governor Kim Reynolds is an outstanding leader for Iowa,” Grassley said. “She has delivered historic tax cuts for hardworking families including no tax on retirement income, strengthened Iowa’s workforce, championed biofuels and the farm economy, empowered families with school choice for their kids’ education, and so much more. We thank her for her leadership and know her vision to keep Iowa the best place to work, raise a family, and retire will continue to make a difference in the current and future legislative sessions.

“Iowa voters sent a strong mandate, building on resounding victories for Republicans in the statehouse and gubernatorial races in 2018 and 2022. Republicans from the grassroots are united more than ever before to lead our state to prosperity and opportunity for generations yet to come. I have no doubt Iowans will re-elect Republicans up and down the ticket in 2026. We are hungrier than ever to keep Iowa moving in the right direction and will outwork anyone and everyone to fight for our values, our liberties, and our freedoms.

“Barbara and I thank Governor Reynolds for her friendship, leadership, and service to the people of Iowa. She is an incredible role model and mentor to many. We wish her and Kevin the very best for years and years to come.”

Sen. Joni Ernst

Also a member of the Senate Ag Committee, the Iowa Republican has served in the Senate since 2015. 

“Kim Reynolds has been a tremendous governor,” Ernst said in a release. “She has transformed Iowa with her bold, conservative leadership — putting parents first, cutting taxes, and supporting hardworking farmers and families in every corner of our state.

“Kim’s story is an inspiration to every Iowan. No matter the challenge, she has faced it head on with grace and grit. Kim is a fighter who always puts Iowa first.

“As her friend, it’s been a joy to watch Kim thrive as our governor. She has sacrificed so much to do what’s best for our state.

“I’m truly grateful for Kim’s selfless service to the people of Iowa. May God bless her and Kevin and their beautiful children and grandchildren.”

State Officials

Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig

The head of Iowa’s Department of Agriculture and Land Services was appointed secretary of Agriculture by Reynolds in 2018.

“Gov. Kim Reynolds has been an unwavering champion for Iowa agriculture, our farmers, and rural communities,” Naig said. “She will stand among the most successful and impactful leaders in our state’s history. From cutting taxes on hard-working Iowans and streamlining state government to expanding access to biofuels and giving parents a choice in their child’s education, her legacy is that of a leader who always kept her focus on enhancing freedom and making Iowa more prosperous for all.  

“As she concludes this final term, I know she will continue to confidently lead while adding victories for Iowans to her long list of accomplishments. I join with countless others who will miss her passionate and enthusiastic leadership, and I extend my heartfelt thanks for everything she has done to serve Iowans. Jaime and I wish her, Kevin, and the whole family well in her next chapter.”

Farm Groups

Iowa Farm Bureau Federation (IFBF)

The IFBF represents farmers in all 99 counties of Iowa and is part of the American Farm Bureau Federation.

“Iowa Farm Bureau and its members across the state are grateful for Governor Reynolds’ partnership and unwavering commitment to Iowa agriculture and support for our farm communities,” said IFBF President Brent Johnson.

“Under Governor Reynolds’ leadership, there have been countless accomplishments and advancements for Iowa agriculture, farmers, and rural communities that leave our state well positioned for continued success. From her support of Iowa’s biofuels industry, historic tax reform, and championing conservation progress, Governor Reynolds has made a tremendous impact on the state of Iowa that will yield positive results for years to come,” Johnson continued in a press release.

“Although Governor Reynolds decided not to seek re-election in 2026, our work together is not done. We look forward to partnering with Governor Reynolds through the conclusion of her final term to advance policy that supports Iowa agriculture and leads our great state forward.

“Governor Reynolds leaves a lasting legacy of accomplishment, and our members thank her for her service to Iowa, and we wish her the best in her next chapter.”

State Commodities Groups

Iowa Renewable Fuels Association (IRFA)

The IRFA represents the state’s liquid renewable fuels industry and works to foster its growth. Iowa has 42 ethanol refineries capable of producing 4.7 billion gallons annually and 10 biodiesel facilities with the capacity to produce 416 million gallons annually.

“Today is a bittersweet day,” said IRFA Executive Director Monte Shaw. “While IRFA members are disappointed Gov. Kim Reynolds won’t be running for reelection, we have very fond memories of her many accomplishments. The Governor has been a tireless advocate for growing the state’s renewable fuels industry, championing nation-leading public policy that always pushes the needle. After decades of public service to Iowa at the local and state level, Gov. Reynolds owes nothing more to Iowa, yet we owe her so much. IRFA members thank Gov. Reynolds for her outstanding leadership in ensuring Iowa agriculture continues to feed and fuel the world today and long into the future.”

Iowa Biodiesel Board (IBB)

The IBB represents the biodiesel industry in Iowa, from the farmers who grow the feedstock, to production, through distribution to end users. Founded by the Iowa Soybean Association, IBB operates an independent organization and board. 

“A tireless champion of biofuels, Governor Reynolds has stood as one of the most vocal and effective advocates for biodiesel at both the state and federal levels, making an indelible impact on the industry and Iowa’s rural economy,” said Grant Kimberley, executive director of the IBB. “Her commitment to expanding homegrown energy has driven transformative change—not just here in Iowa, but nationally. The Governor’s Biofuels Access Bill of 2022 was landmark legislation that set a new standard for supporting biofuels, strengthening demand for biodiesel, creating jobs in rural communities and boosting our state’s economy. More than any sitting governor, she led the charge to make biodiesel a centerpiece of America’s clean energy future.”

Iowa Soybean Association (ISA)

The ISA is driven to deliver increased soybean demand through market development and new uses, farmer-focused research and results, timely information and know-how, and policy initiatives enabling farmers and the industry to flourish.

“In addition to exceptional biodiesel leadership, Governor Reynolds has been a remarkable leader and a true friend to soybean farmers,” said ISA President and farmer Brent Swart. “She’s been an unwavering advocate for Iowa agriculture and the hardworking farmers who feed and fuel the world. Her efforts to champion pro-farmer policies, expand markets, and fight for rural America have left a lasting legacy. We are grateful for her leadership and thankful for the many years she has spent advancing Iowa’s agricultural success. We look forward to continuing our work with her throughout the remainder of her term, and we recognize her great efforts with heartfelt appreciation.”