Brenna Bird announces re-election campaign for Iowa attorney general, opts against gubernatorial bid
One of the top potential contenders for the 2026 race for governor of Iowa will not seek the position.
Iowa Attorney General Brenna Bird, a Republican, announced Wednesday she will not run for governor. Bird had after incumbent Kim Reynolds announced she would not seek re-election at the end of her current term.
"I have been overwhelmed by the number of Iowans who have encouraged me to run for Governor," Bird said in a statement. "I want you to know that there is no way for me to adequately express my appreciation for your kind words and the faith you expressed in me."
Previous video above: Brenna Bird speaks during 2024 Republican National Convention
In the same statement, Bird announced she will be seeking reelection for attorney general in 2026.
"I am absolutely determined to do justice and hold this office to prevent it from being occupied by a radical, progressive Democrat who would undo all we've accomplished," she said.
Bird's decision not to run for governor in 2026 paves the way for a couple of other well-known Republicans.
U.S. Rep. Randy Feenstra (IA-4) filed paperwork in May to run for governor. Feenstra is in his third term in the U.S. House.
State Sen. Mike Bousselot (Ankeny) also launched an exploratory campaign earlier this spring.
On the Democratic side, Iowa Auditor Rob Sand, the only Democrat currently elected to a statewide position, has already announced his bid for governor.
Republicans Brad Sherman and Eddie Andrews and Democrat Julie Stauch have also launched campaigns.
Iowa Democratic Party Chair Rita Hart released a statement shortly after Bird's announcement.
“Whatever office Brenna Bird is running for, she can’t hide from her past four years cozying up to the clique of insiders that have left our state 49th in economic growth and first in the rate of new cancers,” Hart said. “Instead of looking out for workers and consumers, she’s pursued the kind of partisan, political, and expensive vendettas you’d expect from Steve King’s former Chief of Staff. Pulling back from a run for governor won’t prevent voters from holding her accountable.”
Feenstra shared a statement of support for Bird, stating that he will do what he can to help her be reelected.
"Attorney General Brenna Bird is an exceptional and fearless advocate for President Trump and his conservative agenda. She has worked with President Trump to secure our elections, defend Iowa farmers, support law enforcement, and protect women’s sports. President Trump and Attorney General Bird are fierce champions for Iowa," Feenstra said. "Attorney General Bird is also a strong friend of law enforcement and a staunch defender of our Constitution. Under her leadership, she has championed religious liberty, supported parents’ rights in education, and opposed every liberal effort to defund the police. Her historic decision to launch a Cold Case Unit has resulted in criminals being arrested and held accountable for their actions."
Watch: Brenna Bird speaks during 2024 Republican National Convention
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