BREAKING: Iowa State Senator Mike Bousselot has announced he will not pursue a run for governor, opting instead to seek the open Senate seat currently held by retiring Senator Jack Whitver. This significant announcement came on November 19, 2023, amidst a competitive political landscape in Iowa.
Bousselot, who has represented Iowa Senate District 21 since winning a special election in 2021, stated, “I have been overwhelmed by the outpouring of support and encouragement from Iowans regarding my potential campaign for governor.” However, after careful consideration and discussions with his family, he has decided that now is not the time to enter the gubernatorial race.
The decision marks a shift in strategy for the 42-year-old Republican, who initially planned to run for governor following Governor Kim Reynolds‘ announcement that she would not seek reelection. Bousselot has been actively engaging with the community, visiting dozens of counties this summer to hear from constituents about their hopes and concerns for Iowa.
Instead of the gubernatorial campaign, Bousselot will focus on Iowa Senate District 23, a seat deemed safer for Republicans. This district, which spans parts of Polk and Dallas Counties, was previously held by Whitver, who won reelection by over 17 percentage points in 2022 before announcing his retirement due to health issues, including a diagnosis of a brain tumor.
Whitver publicly supports Bousselot’s candidacy, stating, “I am proud to support Mike Bousselot. He is a humble, hard-working legislator who listens to his constituents.” This endorsement is expected to bolster Bousselot’s campaign as he prepares for the 2024 election.
Bousselot’s political experience includes serving as chair of the Commerce Committee and being a member of the Judiciary, State Government, Appropriations, and Ways and Means committees. His background also features a term in the Iowa House and roles in the administration of former Governor Terry Branstad and current Governor Reynolds.
As the Republican gubernatorial primary heats up, Bousselot’s decision to run for Senate shifts the focus on a crowded field that includes State Representative Eddie Andrews, U.S. Representative Randy Feenstra, and several others. On the Democratic side, candidates such as state auditor Rob Sand and political consultant Julie Stauch are making their moves.
The Iowa political scene is now watching closely as Bousselot pivots to secure his position in the legislature, signaling an important shift in the dynamics of the upcoming elections. Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story as Iowans prepare for a pivotal election year.
