Jack Whitver to step aside as leader of Iowa Senate, will not seek re-election in 2026

DES MOINES — Jack Whitver, the Iowa Senate Majority Leader who has been battling a brain tumor for more than a year, will not seek re-election and will step aside as leader, he announced Tuesday.

In a news release, Whitver said he made the decision based on family considerations and his health.

Whitver, who is 45 years old, was diagnosed with a brain tumor in April of 2024. He has continued to serve as Iowa Senate Majority Leader since, including through the 2025 session of the Iowa Legislature.

First elected to the Iowa Senate in 2011, Whitver, a Republican, has been Iowa Senate Majority Leader since 2018.

Whitver is a business owner, lawyer and former Iowa State University football player. For years he lived in Ankeny; in 2022 he claimed a residence in Grimes to run for re-election in a different Iowa Senate district.

“I first started campaigning for the Iowa Senate hours after my oldest daughter was born. I ran because taxes were too high, and I wanted to make it easier to work, start a business and raise a family in Iowa. I believe I have accomplished my goals,” Whitver said in the news release. “I am proud of the work we have accomplished in limiting government, controlling spending, reducing taxes and expanding the rights and freedoms of the people of this great state.

“My oldest daughter is now driving and my three children are very active, making family life busier than ever. I continue to battle a brain tumor and while progress remains positive, I still have a long way to go. My work in the Senate may be coming to a close, but my commitment to making Iowa the best state in the country will always be a part of my life.”

He and his wife Rachel have three children.

Whitver will serve as Majority Leader until Senate Republicans meet “in the near future” to select a new leader, the press release said.

Comments: (515) 355-1300, erin.murphy@thegazette.com

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