Iowa Democrats Shun Kamala Harris as 2026 Midterms Heat Up
Former Vice President Kamala Harris is stepping up her political activity ahead of the 2026 midterms, but Iowa's top Democratic candidates want nothing to do with her. Both the state's Democratic gubernatorial nominee and its U.S. Senate hopeful have made clear they don't want Harris campaigning on their behalf, signaling a broader trend among red-state Democrats who see her as a liability.
Harris is planning to attend a canvass launch with Nevada Attorney General Aaron Ford for his gubernatorial bid next month in Las Vegas, his campaign told POLITICO. She also publicly backed Rep. Chris Pappas in his New Hampshire Senate bid and waded into three House races, including two in her home state of California.
But in Iowa, the reception is decidedly cooler. State Auditor Rob Sand, the Democratic nominee for governor, told POLITICO he would not want Harris to appear with him, adding that the country needed 'new leadership.' State Rep. Josh Turek, running for U.S. Senate, was even blunter. Asked by reporters in Cedar Rapids if he'd welcome Harris on the trail, he replied flatly, 'No,' with a laugh.
Why are Iowa Democrats keeping their distance?
The reluctance isn't surprising. Red-state and rural Democrats have long been wary of tying themselves to national figures, and the Democratic brand remains underwater with voters. A recent Economist/YouGov poll showed President Donald Trump's approval at just 36 percent, but a separate survey found over 56 percent of registered voters disapprove of the Democratic Party. Harris' favorability sits at only 42 percent.
Rebecca Cooke, the Democratic challenger to Republican Rep. Derrick Van Orden in western Wisconsin, put it bluntly: 'I received 9,000 more votes than Harris in 2024. I don't need anyone to come and campaign with me in my district.' A Cooke campaign aide said the team has turned down offers from other national Democrats as well.
Harris' support is welcome in some races
Not every Democrat is shunning Harris. Georgia Sen. Jon Ossoff, a potential 2028 rival, embraced her support. 'Senator Ossoff is grateful for Vice President Harris' help and support in his re-election campaign,' his spokesperson said, adding that he'd welcome her to Georgia.
In Massachusetts, former Biden White House aide Dan Koh won an open House primary Tuesday after running aggressively on support from Harris and President Joe Biden. 'I will never run away from two people I admire greatly,' Koh said.
What does this mean for Iowa voters?
For Iowans, the message from Democratic candidates is clear: they're running as independent-minded candidates, not as extensions of the national party. Kansas Senate nominee Adam Hamilton, running in a state that hasn't sent a Democrat to the Senate since 1932, said, 'Having somebody from California come in and try to tell Kansans who they should vote for is a pretty bad idea.'
Harris' team says she'll continue raising money and traveling for candidates 'in races where she can help make a difference.' But in Iowa, that help is not welcome.
FAQ: What is Kamala Harris' role in the 2026 midterms?
Is Kamala Harris campaigning in Iowa?
No. Iowa's Democratic gubernatorial and Senate candidates have both said they do not want Harris to campaign for them.
Why are some Democrats avoiding Kamala Harris?
Polls show the Democratic brand is underwater, and Harris' favorability is low. Red-state Democrats worry her involvement could hurt their chances with conservative-leaning voters.
Which Democrats welcome Harris' support?
Georgia Sen. Jon Ossoff and Massachusetts House nominee Dan Koh have embraced her support, among others in more Democratic-friendly states.