Iowa State Auditor Rob Sand, the Democratic nominee for governor, made it clear to Politico reporter Jonathan Martin that he would not welcome former President Joe Biden or former Vice President Kamala Harris to campaign on his behalf. When asked if Biden could still campaign, Sand replied, “No. Can he even do that right now? I’m sorry.” He gave a similar response to a question about Harris, saying, “No thanks. Let’s move on. We need some new leadership.”
Sand’s comments come as the 2026 gubernatorial race intensifies. He is facing Trump‑endorsed Republican Zach Lahn, a candidate praised by President Donald Trump on Truth Social as an “America First Patriot” and a “tremendous candidate” for the office. The race is open after incumbent Republican Governor Kim Reynolds announced she will not seek re‑election.
The interview also touched on speculation about Harris’s future political plans. When Martin asked if Harris should run again in 2028, Sand answered, “Nope.” Earlier in April, Harris told civil rights leader Al Sharpton she might consider another run, saying, “I might” and that she was “thinking about it.”
Sand, who has served as Iowa’s auditor, has positioned his campaign around a message of fresh leadership and a break from the national Democratic establishment. By refusing campaign assistance from Biden and Harris, he is signaling to Iowa voters that his candidacy will be rooted in local concerns rather than national party figures.
The Trump administration’s involvement in the race underscores the national significance of the Iowa governor’s seat. President Trump’s endorsement of Lahn highlights the administration’s continued focus on state‑level races as a means of advancing its policy agenda. The endorsement also reflects the broader strategy of supporting candidates who align with the administration’s America First principles.
While the Democratic primary has drawn attention for Sand’s stance, the Republican side is also seeing heightened activity. Lahn, backed by the President, has been actively campaigning across the state, emphasizing his commitment to conservative values, economic growth, and support for the agricultural community.
Both campaigns are expected to intensify as the primary election approaches, with voters in Iowa paying close attention to how each candidate addresses issues such as rural development, education, and the state’s fiscal health. The upcoming race will likely serve as a bellwether for the political climate in the Midwest ahead of the 2028 national elections.
Original reporting: Fox News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
