Brad Magg to run for Iowa House District 38 again in 2026

Brad Magg is making another run for Iowa House District 38. His decision to run is so fresh he hasn’t even gotten the chance to tell his mother. She will no doubt have some choice words to say to her son, but she will also support him every step of the way. Just like before. Democrats in Jasper County feel the same way.

The city councilman and local business owner made the announcement during the annual Jasper County Democrats Soup Supper, a pivotal fundraiser for the local party. He was met with a standing ovation from fellow Democrats, and an encouraging hug from Iowa House Rep. Ross Wilburn of Story County.

“You’ll be the first to hear it: I am going to run again,” Magg said. “So, giddy-up, we’re going to do it again!”

Bryan Friedman, chair of the Jasper County Democratic Party, said Magg ran an “excellent campaign” for Iowa House last year. Magg said he managed to raise $40,000 for his campaign. Dunwell raised more than twice that amount in 2024. Still, just before Election Day 2024 Magg felt confident in his campaign.

“I had amazing volunteers,” Magg said at the soup supper. “You guys showed up in full force. And I was ready. We didn’t do it, but, hey, stuff happens and we learn. Despite losing by 10 points, we were still one of the most overperforming House candidates in the state.”

It was also a presidential election year, and the county overwhelmingly supported Donald Trump over Kamala Harris. Still, Magg recalled the strides his campaign made. Voters had Magg signs posted next to Trump signs in the same yard, and he spoke highly of his interactions with MAGA hat-wearing residents.

“Something was just in the air that day that didn’t go in our favor,” Magg said.

Dunwell ultimately received 9,035 votes, or 55.75 percent. Magg received 7,163 votes, or 44.20 percent. Dunwell has remained the incumbent since October 2021. House District 38 largely represents Jasper County in the Iowa Legislature. Some southern areas, like Monroe, are outside his legislative jurisdiction.

When Magg first announced his campaign for Iowa House in spring 2024, he expressed frustration over Dunwell’s decision making at the Capitol, particularly when it came to property tax reform and public education bills. Magg also ran to improve healthcare issues, particularly in the more rural areas of the state.

Before ending his speech with party members this past Sunday, Magg stressed the need for a more united front internally. He encouraged fellow Democrats to support their candidates even if there are some disputes over issues. He pleaded with them to not throw away their votes over these disagreements.

“Don’t drag our candidates through the mud because you don’t agree with them 100 percent,” Magg said. “They’re still far better than what we have representing us now … Please make sure we’re supporting our candidates so that we can all win come next year.”

Magg is about a year out from Election Day. Plus, there is a primary to consider. Still, the candidate feels way more prepared this time around.

“I have a better idea of what’s going on, and we’re getting a good head start.”