While several close races remain following Tuesday’s elections, Republicans have expanded their Iowa House majority, maintained control of the Senate, and netted at least one new congressional seat. BrownWinick’s Government Relations team has carefully reviewed the current election results and produced a detailed report on all 130 state and federal races. Below you'll find our 2020 Iowa Election Takeaways.
Key takeaways include:
- The Iowa House GOP increased its majority, recapturing several seats flipped by Democrats in 2018. The party balance is now:
- 59 Republicans / 41 Democrats, compared to 53 / 47
- Iowa Senate Republicans maintained their previous majority of:
- 32 Republicans / 18 Democrats.
- The Iowa Senate party balance could change. State Sen. Mariannette Miller-Meeks (R-Ottumwa) ran for the open 2nd Congressional District seat vacated by Congressman Dave Loebsack. She’s is in a close race with former Lt. Governor nominee Rita Hart (D-Wheatland). Since Miller-Meeks was not up for reelection in the Iowa Senate this year, if she wins the congressional race her seat will be filled by special election.
- Iowa’s federal delegation will be mostly Republican. In addition to GOP U.S. Sen. Joni Ernst winning reelection, former Iowa State Rep. Ashley Hinson (R-Marion) unseated first-term Democratic incumbent Congresswoman Abby Finkenauer. Former Congressman Steve King’s s 4th District seat remained in GOP hands with former State Sen. Randy Feenstra (R-Hull) defeating Democrat J.D. Scholten. However, Democrats won the 3rd District race, with first-term Democratic incumbent Cindy Axne defeating a challenge by former Republican Congressman David Young.
The Iowa Secretary of State will certify election results in the coming weeks. The linked report will be updated if any results change.
Questions on election information?
The BrownWinick Government Relations team is happy to host a virtual presentation and discussion for you and your colleagues regarding the election results, the upcoming 2021 legislative session, and related issues. Please contact Matt McKinney if you are interested in scheduling a presentation.
To access the updated 2020 Election Summary, please complete the form below.
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