State Representative District 23 in Iowa State House District 23, Iowa

2026 Primary Election

• Ray Bubba Sorensen — Incumbent Member of the Iowa House of Representatives in IA

  Ray "Bubba" Sorensen, born in Creston, Iowa in 1979, is an artist, businessman, and Republican politician. An Iowa State University art alumnus, he co-owns Sorensen Studios with his wife, Maria, and is known for his Freedom Rock murals. Sorensen was first elected to the Iowa House of Representatives in 2018, currently serving District 23. He chairs the House Economic Growth Committee, focusing on childcare access, workforce development, and rural broadband. He also champions veterans' issues. Sorensen is running for re-election in the 2026 Primary to continue representing District 23.

• Karen Varley — Partner at Varley Law Office in Stuart, IA

  Karen Varley, a Democratic candidate for Iowa House District 23, is a Stuart resident. She grew up on an Allamakee County dairy farm, holding degrees from Iowa State and Cornell. Her career spans agricultural roles, including 18 years with Pioneer Hybrid. After earning a law degree from Drake University, she became a partner at Varley Law Office. Involved in community groups, Varley states she's running because Iowa is moving in the wrong direction due to outside influences on legislators. Her top priorities include fully funding public schools, eliminating education savings accounts, and protecting healthcare decision freedoms. Immigration policy is also a noted area of interest.