A special election is scheduled for December 30 in Senate District 16 to fill the vacancy left by Democratic state Senator Claire Celsi, who passed away in October. The district, which includes parts of Clive, West Des Moines, and Windsor Heights, is now the focal point for both major political parties.
The Republican Party hopes to reclaim the supermajority they lost when Democrat Catelin Drey won a seat in August. Currently, Republicans hold 33 seats in the Iowa Senate, while Democrats have 17. Regaining a supermajority would enable GOP senators to confirm the governor’s appointees without needing Democratic votes, which requires a total of 34 votes.
The candidates vying for this critical position are Democratic nominee Renee Hardman from West Des Moines and Republican nominee Lucas Loftin, also from Clive.
Renee Hardman, 64, serves as the president and CEO of Lutheran Services in Iowa (LSI), a nonprofit organization addressing social service needs for various communities, including immigrants and children in foster care. Having lived in West Des Moines for nearly 25 years, Hardman is focused on preventing the resurgence of a Republican supermajority and advocating for affordable childcare, housing, and healthcare.
Hardman, who is in her third term on the West Des Moines City Council, expresses concern over potential changes to Medicare and emphasizes her commitment to public education, opposing the state’s educational savings account (ESA) program, which she believes diverts essential funds from public schools.
Previously, Hardman held the role of CEO for Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Des Moines and has been active in numerous boards and committees focused on community welfare and diversity initiatives. If elected, she would make history as Iowa’s first Black female senator, an achievement she acknowledges while underscoring her commitment to serving all constituents.
On the other side, Lucas Loftin, 42, is prioritizing issues related to affordability and tax reduction. A software management employee for Wright Service Corp., Loftin, who moved to Iowa in 2015, identifies with everyday challenges that families face, such as rising grocery and fuel prices.
Loftin advocates for a reduction in government spending and sees education as an area in need of reform, suggesting that schools should prioritize teaching critical thinking skills over ideological instructions. He supports the state’s ESA program to allow funds to follow students to any educational setting, viewing parental involvement as vital in determining children’s educational paths.
Loftin has received endorsement from Iowa Right to Life, reflecting his stance on anti-abortion legislation and support for mothers.
As the special election draws near, voters will have the chance to influence the political landscape in Iowa, with implications that could resonate well beyond the district’s borders. Both candidates bring forth distinct visions and values, highlighting the importance of citizen engagement in shaping their government.