Decorah, Iowa – State Auditor Rob Sand, 44, officially entered the 2026 Iowa gubernatorial race on Thursday, naming Crawford County Supervisor Dave Muhlbauer as his lieutenant‑governor candidate. Sand, the sole Democrat currently holding a statewide elected office in Iowa, emphasized his background as a public‑corruption prosecutor and his commitment to local decision‑making.

Local roots shape a statewide vision

Sand described his upbringing in the small town of Decorah as a formative influence on his view of public service. He recalled organizing with friends and neighbors to build a community skate park, saying the experience taught him that “people with competing interests can work together on local issues.” That collaborative spirit, he argues, will guide his approach to governing the entire state.

Efficiency initiative touted as taxpayer safeguard

During his tenure as auditor, Sand launched the Public Innovations and Efficiencies (PIE) program, which he claims has saved Iowa taxpayers millions of dollars by streamlining government operations. The initiative, which audits state agencies for waste and recommends cost‑cutting measures, will be a centerpiece of his campaign platform.

Running mate brings county‑level experience

Choosing Crawford County Supervisor Dave Muhlbauer as his running mate signals a focus on rural concerns. Muhlbauer, a Republican‑leaning conservative who has worked on county infrastructure projects, brings a perspective from Iowa’s agricultural heartland. Together, the ticket aims to bridge urban‑rural divides and present a unified vision for economic growth, education reform, and responsible budgeting.

Campaign priorities

• Fiscal responsibility: Expand the PIE model statewide to reduce waste and lower taxes.
• Education: Increase local control over school curricula and expand vocational training.
• Infrastructure: Prioritize rural broadband expansion and modernize transportation networks.
• Public safety: Strengthen anti‑corruption measures and support law‑enforcement agencies.

What voters can expect

Sand’s campaign will focus on town‑hall meetings across the state, inviting Iowans to share concerns directly with the candidates. He promises transparency in budgeting and a continued emphasis on policies that protect families and uphold constitutional freedoms.

While the race will be competitive, Sand’s message centers on practical solutions derived from his experience as auditor and his belief that local collaboration can solve statewide challenges.

Original reporting: KCCI Des Moines — read the source article.