Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig is exploring the possibility of running for governor of the state.
Incumbent Gov. Kim Reynolds recently announced that she will not seek re-election after having served in that capacity since 2017. Both Reynolds and Naig are Republicans.
Naig, in a statement issued to the Des Moines Register, said “several folks have reached out in recent days,” encouraging him to consider seeking the office.
“My family and I are thoughtfully discussing that possibility and keeping all options on the table,” he said.
“Right now, I’m focused on doing the job I was elected to do — supporting Iowa farmers, growing our ag economy, and protecting our soil and water."
Naig, formerly the state’s deputy secretary of agriculture, was first appointed to the secretary’s position by Reynolds in 2018, after Bill Northey departed to accept an under secretary position with the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). Naig has since been elected to continue in that role.
Naig also issued a statement in which he praised Reynolds for the work she has done as governor.
“Gov. Kim Reynolds has been an unwavering champion for Iowa agriculture, our farmers, and rural communities. She will stand among the most successful and impactful leaders in our state’s history. From cutting taxes on hard-working Iowans and streamlining state government to expanding access to biofuels and giving parents a choice in their child’s education, her legacy is that of a leader who always kept her focus on enhancing freedom and making Iowa more prosperous for all,” said Naig.
“As she concludes this final term, I know she will continue to confidently lead while adding victories for Iowans to her long list of accomplishments. I join with countless others who will miss her passionate and enthusiastic leadership, and I extend my heartfelt thanks for everything she has done to serve Iowans.”
