Former DAS Director Adam Steen Becomes 4th Republican to Enter Iowa Governor's Race

Pleasant Hill, Iowa – Adam Steen, former Director of the Iowa Department of Administrative Services (DAS), officially announced his candidacy for Governor of Iowa on Tuesday, August 20, 2025. His entry into the race follows Governor Kim Reynolds' decision not to seek re-election in 2026, creating a wide-open contest for the state's highest office. Steen's announcement adds another prominent Republican to an already competitive field.

Steen, a Republican, launched his campaign at Berean Church in Pleasant Hill, emphasizing his faith-based values and aligning himself with the "America First" movement. He described himself as "the faith guy, I’m a Jesus guy, I’m a Make America Great Again guy," signaling his conservative platform. His tenure as DAS Director, a position he resigned from to run, included controversial decisions such as denying requests for a Satanic Temple event and an all-ages drag show at the Iowa Capitol.

The political landscape in Iowa was significantly reshaped on April 11, 2025, when Governor Kim Reynolds announced she would not seek a third term. Reynolds cited a desire to focus more on her family, particularly after her husband's lung cancer diagnosis in 2023. Her departure marks the first open gubernatorial race in Iowa in years, prompting a surge of potential candidates from both major parties.

Steen joins State Representative Eddie Andrews and former State Representative Brad Sherman as officially declared Republican candidates. U.S. Representative Randy Feenstra and State Senator Michael Bousselot have also formed exploratory committees, indicating their strong interest in the nomination. On the Democratic side, Iowa Auditor Rob Sand, considered a frontrunner, and Julie Stauch have announced their candidacies.

The competitive nature of the race has drawn commentary, with social media users like Steve Deace tweeting, > "This is maybe the best candidate introduction video I've ever seen in Iowa. @adamsteen might be the energy our side has sorely lacked since @KimReynoldsIA announced she was retiring. Now we see if he can raise the money/name ID it takes to win." Steen's ability to build name recognition and secure significant campaign funding will be crucial in navigating the crowded primary ahead of the June 2, 2026, primary election.