Iowa first gentleman Kevin Reynolds diagnosed with lung cancer

DES MOINES — Iowa first gentleman Kevin Reynolds, the husband of Gov. Kim Reynolds, has been diagnosed with lung cancer, the governor announced Thursday.

She said in a statement they are optimistic about the treatment he is undergoing. She did not announce details of what led to the diagnosis.

"Our doctor has assured us that significant advancements in lung cancer treatment have been very effective and we have every reason to be optimistic," Reynolds said. "We are confident in our team as we begin treatment, and we will beat this together."

Kevin and Kim Reynolds married in 1982. They have three daughters and 11 grandchildren. He became Iowa's first-ever first gentleman in 2017 when Kim Reynolds became governor.

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Before retiring in 2017, Kevin Reynolds worked in soil and water conservation for local agencies and the U.S. Department of Agriculture, according to the governor's website. Since Reynolds became governor, he has been focused on historic preservation of the governor's mansion, Terrace Hill, and he sits on the Terrace Hill Commission.

“Kevin has been my anchor throughout our 41 years of marriage, and I will be the same for him as he begins treatment," Kim Reynolds said in a statement. "We are blessed to be surrounded by a loving family and a community of prayer warriors. We know God is with us on this journey.”

Other Iowa officials expressed support for the governor and first gentleman.

"Matt and I are keeping Kevin and Kim in our prayers and sending all our love and support to them," U.S. Rep. Ashley Hinson said in a post on X, formerly Twitter. "Kevin is going to beat this — all of Iowa is standing with the Reynolds family!"

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, who has been campaigning in Iowa, often with Reynolds, as he seeks the Republican presidential nomination, sent support over social media as well. DeSantis's wife, Casey, was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2021.

"As we have experienced firsthand, battling cancer is not an easy fight but prayers and support from the people around you raises your chances of success," DeSantis said on X. "We intend to provide that support to Kim and Kevin."