Kim Weaver considers another challenge to Steve King

SIOUX CITY - Kim Weaver, a Democrat who unsuccessfully ran to defeat Republican U.S. Rep. Steve King in Iowa's 4th congressional district, is pondering the possibility of an electoral rematch in 2018.

Weaver told the Sioux City Journal on Tuesday she is exploring a congressional campaign and plans to make a decision at a later date on whether to run.

'Now, I have the name recognition ... I have a good framework within the district,” Weaver said.

The 4th District covers 39 counties in Northwest and North Central Iowa. King easily won his eighth term last year, by a nearly two-to-one voting margin.

Right after her November 2016 loss, Weaver said she may run again in 2018 against King, or for governor or the Iowa Democratic Party chairwoman position. Derek Eadon was selected earlier this year as the Iowa Democratic Party chairman.

Weaver said Tuesday she is passionate about making sure people in the 4th District have strong rural education and that the federal Medicare and Social Security programs won't be cut.

Weaver, 52, of Sheldon, is a long-term care ombudsman for the Iowa Department of Aging.

Weaver said she has heard a few other Democrats may also run in the 4th District. If so, a June 2018 party primary would determine the party's nominee.