By Andi Anderson
Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig has confirmed he will not run for governor in 2026. Instead, he plans to seek reelection for his current role, continuing his focus on agricultural development in the state.
Naig was seen as a possible contender to replace Governor Kim Reynolds, who recently announced she would not seek another term. In April, Naig mentioned he was discussing the option with his family. On Tuesday, he made his decision public, saying he remains committed to building Iowa’s agricultural economy.
Naig was first appointed to the agriculture secretary role in March 2018 after serving as deputy secretary under Bill Northey. Northey left to serve in the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Naig went on to win elections in both 2018 and 2022, defeating Democrat John Norwood in the last race.
Naig has not yet officially launched his 2026 campaign but said that announcement will come later. In his statement, Naig expressed gratitude for the chance to serve Iowans and pledged to continue putting “farmers, families, and freedom” at the centre of Iowa’s future.
He outlined several priorities he plans to pursue if reelected, including expanding markets for Iowa-grown products, protecting the livestock industry, promoting conservation of soil and water, and ensuring rural communities grow and succeed.
Naig said he remains focused on supporting the people who help Iowa maintain its status as a national leader in agriculture. “We’re not done yet,” he said, noting there is still important work ahead to improve opportunities for future generations.
Naig’s decision keeps him at the helm of Iowa’s agriculture leadership, where he continues to be a key figure in shaping farm policy and rural development.
Photo Credit: zoran-zeremski
Categories: Iowa, Government & Policy