State Senator District 35 in Iowa State Senate District 35, Iowa

2026 Primary Election

• Joe Stutting — Superintendent in IA

  Joe Stutting, a Republican, is campaigning for the Iowa State Senate District 35 seat in 2026. A veteran, longtime Iowa educator, and Clinton County native, Stutting currently serves as the superintendent of the North Scott School District. His campaign focuses on supporting small businesses, farmers, and skilled trades, improving education, protecting the Second Amendment, and limiting government overreach while keeping taxes low. His run for the open seat, previously held by a Republican and currently by Democrat Mike Zimmer, could set up a significant contest involving two experienced school administrators.

• Mike Zimmer — Incumbent State Senator in IA

  Iowa State Senator Mike Zimmer, a Democrat representing District 35, is an education professional. He taught, coached, and held administrative roles in eastern Iowa schools, and served as president of the Central DeWitt Community School Board. Zimmer won a special election on January 28, 2025, flipping a Trump-friendly district, and was sworn in February 10, 2025. He is seeking a full term in 2026. His platform emphasizes helping working Iowans, supporting public schools, and lowering the cost of living. He is married with five children.