(State Sen. Lynn Evans - Community First Broadcasting Staff Photo)Des Moines, Iowa (KAYL) — State Sen. Lynn Evans of Aurelia will continue serving in Iowa Senate leadership after being reelected as an assistant majority leader for the 92nd General Assembly.
Evans was selected Friday by his fellow Senate Republicans, who also reelected Sen. Mike Klimesh of Spillville as Senate majority leader and Sen. Amy Sinclair of Allerton as Senate president.
One of four assistant majority leaders, Evans helps coordinate legislative priorities, communicate with members of the Republican caucus, and relay concerns about proposed legislation. He says the position has given him a greater understanding of how the legislative process works.
Leadership Role Continues
Evans said Senate Republican leaders meet weekly before the Senate convenes to discuss legislative priorities, scheduling, and concerns raised by caucus members. Assistant majority leaders then communicate with groups of senators and relay feedback to leadership.
Evans will continue serving alongside assistant majority leaders Carrie Koelker of Dyersville and Adrian Dickey of Packwood. Sen. Dawn Driscoll of Williamsburg joins the group, replacing Sen. Tim Kraayenbrink of Fort Dodge, who was selected as Senate president pro tempore.
The leadership elections come as Republicans prepare to maintain control of the Iowa Senate following last week’s general election.
Education Remains a Top Priority
Evans, who was also reelected to a second four-year term representing Senate District 3, said education will remain a major focus during the upcoming legislative session.
The former teacher, principal, and superintendent currently chairs the Senate Education Committee and hopes to continue in that capacity when committee assignments are finalized. Evans says improving classroom instruction, updating educational standards, and providing schools with greater flexibility remain important goals.
Property Taxes Still a Major Issue
Beyond education, Evans said property taxes continue to be one of the most frequently discussed issues among northwest Iowa residents.
He said lawmakers should continue evaluating property tax reforms approved during the 2026 legislative session and noted that many of the law’s impacts will not begin appearing on tax statements until 2027.
Evans said additional work may be needed, particularly to help older Iowans remain in their homes.
He also noted that legislative leaders responsible for tax policy have indicated they are open to feedback, and he intends to share constituents’ concerns while campaigning.
Evans was first elected to the Iowa Senate in 2022. Senate District 3 includes all of O’Brien, Osceola, and Buena Vista counties, along with portions of Cherokee and Clay counties.
The 2027 Iowa legislative session begins January 11th.
