In Iowa, a special election saw Democrat Renee Hardman win a State Senate seat, preventing Republicans from regaining a two-thirds majority in the chamber. Hardman defeated Republican Lucas Loftin to represent a part of the Des Moines suburbs, filling a seat left open after the passing of State Senator Claire Celsi.
Hardman’s victory means the GOP will need to find common ground with at least one Democrat to push through Governor Reynolds’ appointments. While Republicans still hold strong majorities in both the House and Senate, the supermajority is still out of reach.
Iowa GOP Chairman Jeff Kaufmann recognized Loftin’s efforts in a district where Democrats have a voter advantage. He emphasized that the Iowa Republican Party remains dedicated to growing their majorities in the Iowa Legislature and keeping Iowa a state that supports conservative values.
