The Iowa Legislature is undergoing a significant leadership reshuffle, with several prominent lawmakers stepping down from key positions and announcing bids for higher office.

Senate Majority Leader Jack Whitver announced he will not seek re-election in 2026 and has stepped down from his leadership post. In a closed-door election, Senate Republicans selected Senator Mike Klimesh as the new Majority Leader.

Changes are also underway in the Iowa House of Representatives. Rep. Bobby Kaufmann has been chosen by his Republican colleagues to serve as the new House Majority Leader, following Rep. Matt Windschitl’s decision to step down from the role. Windschitl is launching a campaign for the U.S. House of Representatives, seeking to replace Congressman Randy Feenstra, who is running for Governor.

Additionally, Rep. Shannon Lundgren has announced her candidacy for Congress, aiming to succeed U.S. Rep. Ashley Hinson, who is launching a U.S. Senate bid. Meanwhile, Rep. Mike Sexton will be leaving the state legislature to take a position with the U.S. Department of Agriculture in the Trump Administration.

These departures leave several influential committee leadership positions vacant, including chairs of the House Ways and Means, Commerce, and Agriculture committees. New appointments are expected soon.

Stay tuned as the Iowa political landscape continues to shift ahead of the 2026 session.