Iowa House 51 race has new challenger: Democrat Laura Hubka

Navy veteran and health care specialist Laura Hubka of Riceville plans to challenge Rep. Josh Byrnes, R-Osage, for a northeast Iowa seat in the Iowa House.

“As a veteran and health care professional for 30 years, I'm passionate about serving our great country and helping Iowans lead healthy lives,” said Hubka, 48, a Democrat.  “It's time for us to put aside the partisanship, do what's best for everyday Iowans, and grow the middle class again.”

Iowa House 51, which Byrnes, 39, has represented since 2011, includes Howard, Mitchell, Worth, and part of Winneshiek Counties.

“After a decade in the Navy and three decades listening to patients, I'm ready to serve in the Iowa House,” Hubka said. “Over the next year, I will work hard and reach out to Iowans in every part of the district to hear their ideas and suggestions.”

Hubka is a graduate of Decorah High School. She served in the Navy for a decade before returning to Iowa. She worked at Winneshiek Medical Center and now works at Mercy Medical Center-North Iowa performing ultrasounds.

Hubka lives in Riceville with her husband, Kenny. She has three children.

Hubka can be reached at

laurahubkaforiowa@gmail.com.