Hunter
04/30/25
Democrat Angelina Ramirez handily defeated Republican opponent Bernie Hayes to win a special election for the 78th District seat.
The Des Moines Register reports unofficial results show she had nearly 80% of the vote with 11 of 12 precincts reporting. If the results hold, Ramirez will be the first Latina elected to the Iowa Legislature.
In a statement, Ramirez said, “Progress isn’t partisan. Fully funded schools, access to healthcare, clean air and water, these are Iowa values. I believe every Iowan, no matter their zip code or background, deserves dignity, opportunity, and justice. I am looking forward to advocating for these values in the House!”
Iowa Democratic Party chair Rita Hart issued a statement Tuesday night that said in part, “The scale of our victory tonight shows that as long as Democrats run candidates who understand and fight for their communities, we can win elections across the state. There’s more work to be done, but tonight we can rest assured that things are looking a little brighter. We won this election in good shape. Tomorrow we get ready for the next.”