Democrats make major gains in Iowa legislature

Iowa Democrats made notable gains in the state legislature during the midterm elections, narrowing the Republican majority in the House and Senate. The shift brings a divided state government as Rob Sand wins the governor's race.

Iowa Governor-elect Rob Sand speaks during an election night watch party at the State Historical Society of Iowa on Tuesday, November 3, 2026.

Democrats won 11 Iowa House seats and two Senate seats in Tuesday’s midterm elections, breaking the Republican Party's decade-long control of the state government across the United States.