Lindsay James Misses Over Half of House Votes While Campaigning

Iowa state Representative Lindsay James, a Democratic candidate for Congress, missed more than half of her votes in the Iowa House of Representatives during 2026, choosing to attend campaign events instead of voting on key legislation like property tax cuts and animal torture penalties.

How Many Votes Did Lindsay James Miss?

James missed 177 of 342 votes in the Iowa House this year, according to official legislative records. That equals an absence rate of 51.7%, meaning the Dubuque lawmaker was absent for the majority of roll call votes she was elected to cast.

The missed votes stand in sharp contrast to James's own words about her commitment to her legislative duties. When she launched her congressional campaign, James told viewers she would continue prioritizing her work at the capitol.

What Did James Promise About Her Work Ethic?

At the outset of her campaign, James was asked whether she would continue serving as a minister while running for office. She responded by emphasizing her dedication to her legislative responsibilities.