Brad Sherman has officially entered the race for Iowa governor, setting up a potential Republican primary battle against incumbent Gov. Kim Reynolds in 2026.
Sherman, a pastor from Williamsburg and former one-term state representative, made his campaign announcement via email. His decision follows months of speculation about his political ambitions.
Reynolds Has Yet to Announce Re-Election Bid
Gov. Kim Reynolds, who has led Iowa since 2017, has not officially declared her candidacy for re-election. However, she has hinted at her future plans.
If she chooses to run, Reynolds would enter the primary with a significant advantage in name recognition and early fundraising.
Sherman’s Strategy and Campaign Message
Sherman has emphasized the leadership skills he has developed as a pastor and how they could translate into governing the state. He previously endorsed Donald Trump ahead of the 2024 Iowa Republican Caucuses and is expected to align his campaign message with Trump’s “Make America Great Again” platform.
His campaign will likely focus on conservative policies and values, but he faces an uphill battle against Reynolds, who remains a dominant force in Iowa politics.
A Competitive Republican Primary?
While Reynolds’ decision will shape the race, Sherman’s entry signals a potential challenge to the current governor’s leadership. Whether other Republicans join the primary remains to be seen.
Nebraska News will continue to follow the developments in Iowa’s 2026 gubernatorial race.
