Republican Randy Feenstra formally launched his Iowa gubernatorial campaign at Dordt University, positioning himself against Democrat Rob Sand by contrasting “Iowa values” and “truth” with what he calls liberal politics and slogans. Feenstra emphasized his commitment to honesty and standing firm on convictions, rejecting Sand’s call for civility as a call to hide beliefs. He highlighted key campaign focuses including growing Iowa’s economy by supporting business and agriculture, cutting property taxes, restoring education, retaining young adults, and promoting affordable healthcare. Feenstra, currently serving his third term in Congress, has already raised over $3.2 million and was the first candidate to air TV ads in the race.

Sand, the state auditor and the only Democrat holding statewide office, launched his campaign earlier in May and also faces challengers, as do Feenstra and other Republicans including State Rep. Eddie Andrews and businessman Zach Lahn. Feenstra criticized current federal health care subsidies under Obamacare as ineffective in lowering premiums and expressed a desire to find new solutions. He also expressed frustration with Washington politics, signaling his intent to focus full-time on Iowa rather than national political games. The race is shaping up as a contest between Feenstra’s conservative, America First agenda and Sand’s Democratic platform.