Mike Klimesh of Spillville chosen new Republican leader for Iowa Senate
State Sen. Mike Klimesh of Spillville has been selected by his Republican colleagues to serve as the next Iowa Senate Majority Leader, the caucus announced Wednesday. He succeeds Sen. Jack Whitver of Grimes, who stepped down from the leadership role earlier this month.
Why it matters
The Senate Majority Leader, chosen by members of the majority party, sets the chamber’s agenda and steers the caucus’ priorities through the legislative process. Republicans currently hold a 33–17 advantage in the Iowa Senate, giving the new leader significant influence over policy direction in the upcoming session.
Klimesh’s background
Klimesh, 56, has represented Senate District 32 since 2021. The district covers Howard, Winneshiek, Allamakee and Clayton counties, along with small portions of Fayette and Dubuque counties in northeast Iowa. A graduate of South Winneshiek High School and Luther College, he spent two decades managing a printing company and served 22 years as mayor of Spillville. He is married and has longstanding ties to the region he represents.
Priorities and first message as leader
In remarks following his selection, Klimesh called it an honor to lead a “deep and talented” caucus and expressed gratitude to Whitver for his years of service and leadership. He signaled a familiar Republican agenda: continuing efforts to lower taxes, make Iowa more affordable, reduce barriers to work and investment, grow the economy, and strengthen the state’s K-12 schools.
Reactions from state leaders
Gov. Kim Reynolds congratulated Klimesh and said his influence within the Senate has steadily grown over the past four years. She voiced confidence in his ability to guide the chamber and said she looks forward to partnering with him in the next legislative session to advance a conservative policy agenda.
Sen. Janice Weiner of Iowa City, who leads the Senate Democrats, also congratulated Klimesh. She said she hopes both parties can find common ground to improve the lives of Iowans and thanked Whitver for his commitment to public service, noting the challenges of leadership amid serious health concerns.
Whitver’s transition
Whitver announced earlier this month that he would resign as Majority Leader but continue serving his four-year term, which concludes next year. He has been undergoing treatment for a brain tumor for more than a year and said his decision was based on family considerations and his health. Colleagues from both parties praised his leadership and dedication.
What’s next
With caucus leadership settled, Senate Republicans will finalize priorities ahead of the next legislative session. Klimesh’s selection signals continuity on fiscal policy, workforce initiatives, and education reforms, areas where the majority party is expected to press for additional changes in the months ahead.
