(KIWA Staff Photo)Des Moines, Iowa (RI) — Louisiana Senator John Kennedy told more than 1,300 Christian conservatives in Iowa this weekend that he expects the war in Iran to end by spring.
Kennedy was the keynote speaker at the Iowa Faith and Freedom Coalition’s fall fundraiser. He cited the mid-2022 inflation rate of 9% under President Joe Biden and praised the “One Big Beautiful Bill” President Trump signed during his first year back in the White House. Kennedy also urged attendees to support Republican Ashley Hinson in her U.S. Senate race, calling her “whip smart and charming.”
Kennedy spent the weekend on a three-state tour supporting GOP candidates in close races, including Republican senators in Nebraska and Kansas.
Reynolds Urges Republicans to “Lean In”
Governor Kim Reynolds, who is not seeking reelection, told the crowd in Des Moines that Republicans must work to retain control of the executive and legislative branches.
Reynolds said GOP victories statewide would be the “very, very best retirement gift” for her.
Three of the four Republicans running for Iowa’s U.S. House seats attended the event.
First District — Mariannette Miller‑Meeks
Miller-Meeks, seeking a fourth term in one of the nation’s closest House races, urged attendees not to be demoralized by polling.
Second District — Joe Mitchell
Mitchell said the race has emerged as one of about 50 competitive House contests nationwide.
Fourth District — Chris McGowan
McGowan noted the district’s strong Republican registration advantage — where there are 44% more Republicans than Democrats registered to vote — but said enthusiasm remains crucial.
Democratic Response
The event was held in a hotel ballroom across the street from the Des Moines Airport. Iowa Democratic Party leaders did not comment on the gathering. A spokesman for Rob Sand, the Democratic candidate for governor, said Iowans are ready for change and do not want to “double down on the failed policies of the past.”
A spokesperson for U.S. Senate candidate Josh Turek said Hinson voted last week to continue the war in Iran, which they argue has contributed to rising fuel prices. Turek has called for a temporary suspension of the federal gas tax and a pause on all exports of U.S.-produced diesel.
