1 hour ago - Politics

Democrat Sarah Trone Garriott flips Iowa's 3rd District

Linh Ta

Portrait of a smiling woman with shoulder-length blonde hair and bangs, wearing a dark blue long-sleeve top, arms crossed, standing in front of a gray brick wall. — Sarah Trone Garriott. Photo: Courtesy of Sarah for Iowa

Sarah Trone Garriott defeated U.S. Rep. Zach Nunn in Iowa's competitive 3rd Congressional District, flipping a key seat in the battle for Congress, according to the Associated Press.

Why it matters: Her victory marks a major win for both national and local Democrats, who are trying to break through Republicans' dominance in the state.

The big picture: The district was a top Democratic target nationally as the party sought to regain control of the U.S. House, raising $2.4 million from July 15-Oct. 14

Zoom in: Trone Garriott, a Lutheran minister and state senator from West Des Moines, campaigned on making life more affordable for Iowa families and protecting access to health care.

Nunn, a two-term congressman and Air Force Reserve officer, emphasized his bipartisan record, tax cuts and support for Iowa farmers.

Flashback: Nunn first won the seat in 2022, defeating Democratic incumbent Cindy Axne.

He won a second term in 2024, defeating Democrat Lanon Baccam by fewer than 4 percentage points.
The district, which includes urban, progressive areas like Des Moines and much of south-central Iowa, has changed party control multiple times over the past decade.

What they're saying: "I know your vote is an act of hope, and I am deeply honored and humbled to be your next representative," she said during her victory speech.

What's next: Trone Garriott will take office in January, becoming Iowa's first Democratic U.S. House member in four years.

Add Axios on Google

Democrat Sarah Trone Garriott flips Iowa's 3rd District

More Des Moines stories