Interview with Majority Leader Jack Whitver

What are the top priorities for your caucus in 2025?

Senate Republicans heard a clear mandate from voters in November to continue implementing more progrowth, pro-taxpayer, pro-freedom legislation in the same way we have since taking the majority in 2016. I have often said as long as I am the leader and Senate Republicans are in the majority, we will work on taxes. I expect this year the focus will turn more to property taxes than sales or income taxes. Voters also expressed their concern about the rapidly rising cost of living. I expect our caucus to take a look at the cost of doing business in Iowa, the cost of housing and energy, and other areas driving the cost of living in this country.

You are now leading a GOP team in the Senate that represents all or a portion of all 99 counties. What is it about that brand that has developed such broad appeal?

The most important part of any campaign is the candidate, and we have a great set of candidates and Senators in the Republican Caucus. They come to the Senate to do something, not be someone and the voters see that mindset and reward it with their vote.

Another aspect of our success is because we get things done. Working with the House and Governor Kim Reynolds, we have delivered historic tax relief, property tax reform, landmark protections for law enforcement, realigned state government and eliminated dozens of needless regulations. Iowans have responded positively to that agenda. I think they also appreciate the fact that when we say we are going to do something, we get it done.

There is much talk about property tax reform and reduction. What does success look like for 2025?

I believe success on property taxes in 2025 looks like bending the cost curve of local government down. Since 2000 the rise in property taxes has far outpaced population growth, wage growth, and state revenues and spending, and Iowans are demanding relief. The property tax system in Iowa took decades to become so expensive and complex, and it will take years to unwind, but I am optimistic we will find some agreement here because like I said previously, we have been very productive as a team with Governor Reynolds and the House of Representatives.

You have a background in business ownership. Any lessons learned that you have applied to your work in the Senate?

The best lesson that translates from business ownership to the Senate is to be ready and willing to do the hard work necessary to succeed. Success in the Senate takes a lot of time and effort to work through policies, develop relationships, and work with the public, fellow senators, the House of Representatives, and Governor Reynolds.

Your party (Republican) now controls both legislative chambers and the Governorship in Iowa and both chambers in Congress and the Presidency. What public policy opportunities are now available because of this alignment? 

The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 was a tremendous success for Iowa and the whole country. It spurred years of dynamic economic growth and complimented the tax relief work we did here in Iowa to reduce income taxes for families and job creators. It allowed us to have rolling conformity with the federal tax code and make taxes fairer and simpler. I am optimistic we will see similar successes over the next four years on taxes and regulations. I am also optimistic Iowa may have more flexibility in delivering social programs to encourage and reward work and move more able-bodied Iowans into the workforce.

How will you grade the outcome of the 2025 session? I will view the session as a success if we continue to implement conservative spending practices, continue to ease the tax burden, and find ways to control rapid increases in the cost of living and doing business.