I used to think Pat Grassley was the heir apparent to Chuck Grassley's seat, but I don't think that anymore. He hasn't done much to build up the statewide profile he would need, and I don't think he has his grandfather's work ethic. I see him possibly running for a statewide office in the future but not for the U.S. Senate.
I think Matt Whitaker will run for Grassley's Senate seat in 2028--if the senator retires, which is not a sure thing!
That's very interesting. Would be a fascinating move if Grassley decided to step aside and endorse someone who isn't named Grassley but then what do you think the odds are of that? I'm guessing pretty slim... Whitaker would be interesting tho.
Insightful analysis on Reynolds and Ernst. Johanna Maska is both a knowledgeable insider and an outsider to Iowa, offering a unique and valuable perspective. I look forward to joining her in conversation about what's happening in Iowa politics on Thursday at 2 p.m. Pacific Time, 4 p.m. Central Time, 5 p.m. Eastern Time. I'll try to keep up!
I used to think Pat Grassley was the heir apparent to Chuck Grassley's seat, but I don't think that anymore. He hasn't done much to build up the statewide profile he would need, and I don't think he has his grandfather's work ethic. I see him possibly running for a statewide office in the future but not for the U.S. Senate.
I think Matt Whitaker will run for Grassley's Senate seat in 2028--if the senator retires, which is not a sure thing!
https://www.bleedingheartland.com/2025/08/23/chuck-grassley-not-ready-to-rule-out-ninth-term/
That's very interesting. Would be a fascinating move if Grassley decided to step aside and endorse someone who isn't named Grassley but then what do you think the odds are of that? I'm guessing pretty slim... Whitaker would be interesting tho.
Interesting- just one suggested correction: Gov Reynolds is 66, not “in her 50s.”
You’re right! Ernst is 55. Will edit. Thank you. 50s and 60s in politics is somehow still spring chickens. 😂
Insightful analysis on Reynolds and Ernst. Johanna Maska is both a knowledgeable insider and an outsider to Iowa, offering a unique and valuable perspective. I look forward to joining her in conversation about what's happening in Iowa politics on Thursday at 2 p.m. Pacific Time, 4 p.m. Central Time, 5 p.m. Eastern Time. I'll try to keep up!