Iowa College Student, 20, Becomes Mayor of 144-Person Town
Eva Fipps was sworn in as mayor of Henderson, Iowa, on December 29, 2025, making the 20-year-old college student potentially the youngest serving mayor in the United States. Her election in the Mills County town of just 144 residents has drawn national attention, but her focus remains on practical local improvements, not the record books.
How a 20-Year-Old Ended Up Running for Mayor
Fipps did not start with political ambitions. According to Radio Iowa, her path to the mayor's office began with routine walks with her dogs, which regularly took her past Henderson City Hall. There, she struck up conversations with city clerk Candace Knop that continued for years, including through the COVID-19 pandemic.
It was Knop who suggested Fipps consider running for mayor. Initially hesitant because of her age, Fipps decided the experience of participating in the election would be valuable even if she lost.
Election Victory and Swearing-In
In November 2025, Fipps defeated Scott Schondelmeyer by 30 votes, according to Radio Iowa. She was sworn into office on December 29, 2025, and began her term in early January 2026.
Her election places her among a wave of young conservative-minded leaders in the area. KCCI reported that Mills County also has a 19-year-old county supervisor, Jack Sayers, while 21-year-old Joseph Jaworkski was elected mayor of nearby Silver City.
What the Young Mayor Wants to Accomplish
Fipps has outlined practical goals for Henderson rather than dwelling on the novelty of her age. Radio Iowa reported she wants to increase community involvement and organize events that bring together current residents, former residents, and people from surrounding communities.
She also plans to address Henderson's empty shopfronts and renovate the town's playground, tackling the everyday challenges of keeping a very small community active and attractive.
Learning the Ropes of Local Government
Fipps is taking a class on open meetings to understand her legal responsibilities, Radio Iowa reported. She has also been meeting with other mayors, city clerks, and board members to learn the details of the position.
Much of her early work involves communication and absorbing information from more experienced officials, a learning curve familiar to many first-time officeholders regardless of age.
A Background in Public Service
Before becoming mayor, Fipps graduated from Treynor High School in 2024 and was a dual enrollee at Iowa Western Community College. She participated in Iowa Girls State and served as a page in the Iowa Legislature, experiences that introduced her to how government works.
Y105 reported that Fipps has ambitions of attending law school. For now, her attention is on Henderson and the responsibilities of leading a town of 144 people.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is the youngest mayor in the United States?
Eva Fipps, 20, of Henderson, Iowa, is believed to be the youngest serving mayor in the country and potentially the youngest female mayor in U.S. history.
How did Eva Fipps win the election in Henderson?
Fipps defeated Scott Schondelmeyer by 30 votes in the November 2025 election, according to Radio Iowa.
What are Eva Fipps's priorities as mayor?
Her priorities include increasing community involvement, organizing events, addressing empty shopfronts, and renovating the town's playground.