Four Republican candidates for Iowa governor shared their vision for the state during a forum at Sandy Hollow near Sioux Center, Monday night, hosted by The Iowa Standard.
The event was moderated in part by State Representative Skyler Wheeler of Hull. Candidates discussed several issues, including Iowa’s cancer rate, immigration enforcement, workforce needs, and limiting a governor’s emergency powers following the COVID-19 shutdowns. When the question was asked whether Iowa should have term limits for governors or representatives, not one candidate raised a hand.
One of the questions asked was about standing up for your beliefs, even when it’s unpopular. Former Department of Administrative Services Director Adam Steen (third from left in the photo) pointed to his leadership during a high-profile dispute at the Iowa Capitol involving the Satanic Temple. He told the crowd that while he strongly opposed allowing a satanic display inside the building, doing so at the time was the only legal option.
Former State Representative Brad Sherman (first on the left in the photo) highlighted more than 40 years as a pastor — and said he didn’t wait to enter the race.
State Representative Eddie Andrews (second from left in the photo) said his record of winning and delivering in a heavily Democratic district shows he can take the fight statewide.
Farmer and business owner Zach Lahn (fourth from left – last in the photo) said his background makes him a bold leader — not a career politician.
Lahn said the following in a question about what it will take to win the 2026 race.
That was a jab at Fourth District Congressman and Hull native Randy Feenstra, who skipped the forum — instead hosting his own campaign stop earlier in the evening at Late Harvest Brewery in Sioux Center. Former Congressman Steve King was also in attendance, but was not available for comment.
