Iowa Senate Races See Shake-up

Two Iowa Senate races are seeing a shake-up in the candidates who are vying to represent these districts in November. In Sioux City (SD-7), Sen. Rick Bertrand, a Republican, announced he would not seek re-election earlier this summer, but has entered the race after the Republican candidate dropped out. The seat, which has a Democrat registration advantage, was targeted as a potential pick-up for Democrats. It is now considered a toss-up.

Senate District 13, currently held by Sen. Chaz Allen (D-Newton), is now considered an open seat, as well. Sen. Allen announced he would not run again. The leading Republican challenger dropped out and a new candidate emerged—current state representative Zach Nunn (R-Bondurant). The district encompasses eastern Polk County and Jasper County, including the city of Newton. The Democrats have yet to nominate a candidate after Taylor Van De Krol, who was selected to replace Sen. Allen, also resigned. A special nominating convention will be held this week to select a new Democrat candidate.