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Indianola Today
By the People, for the People
Sen. Elissa Slotkin Reaches Out to Trump Voters in Iowa
The Michigan Democrat is campaigning for fellow Democrats while seeking insights to win back parts of the Midwest.
Apr. 8, 2026 at 2:42pm
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U.S. Sen. Elissa Slotkin, a potential 2028 Democratic presidential contender, is visiting Iowa to support congressional candidates and gather insights on how her party can win over President Donald Trump's supporters. Slotkin sat down with a group of Trump voters to ask what it would take for them to consider voting for a Democrat, as part of her effort to 'rehab the Democratic brand' in the Midwest.
Why it matters
Slotkin's outreach to Trump voters in Iowa reflects the Democratic Party's broader challenge of reconnecting with working-class and rural voters in the Midwest who have increasingly supported Republican candidates in recent elections. As a potential 2028 presidential candidate, Slotkin's ability to bridge that divide could shape the future direction of the party.
The details
During her visit, Slotkin peppered a group of five Iowa Trump voters with questions about divisiveness in U.S. politics, issues affecting their communities, and what they would look for in an ideal candidate. She did not initially reveal that she was a Democrat. Slotkin said the Democratic Party has 'forgotten about the middle of the country' and needs to do a better job delivering a strong counter to Trump's messaging. She also held a town hall and fundraiser with Iowa Democrats, sharing her views on the need for a public health insurance option and advice on how to convince voters that supporting a Democrat is in their best interest.
- Slotkin visited Iowa on Tuesday, April 8, 2026.
- She is planning a town hall in Ohio on Wednesday, April 9, 2026.
The players
Elissa Slotkin
A U.S. Senator from Michigan and a potential Democratic presidential candidate in 2028.
Donald Trump
The former president whose supporters Slotkin is trying to win over.
Kamala Harris
The former vice president who ran against Trump in the 2024 election.
Ed Klavins
A retiree from Urbandale, Iowa, who participated in Slotkin's focus group and was paid $200 plus lunch to do so.
Zach Nunn
The Republican U.S. Representative for one of the most competitive House seats in the country, which Slotkin's fellow Democrat Sarah Trone Garriott is looking to unseat.
What they’re saying
“'What would have gotten you to actually consider a Democrat?'”
— Elissa Slotkin, U.S. Senator
“'She's trying to figure out what she can do differently to have a better chance of getting reelected and maybe higher office.'”
— Ed Klavins, Retiree
“'I like her.'”
— Ed Klavins, Retiree
What’s next
Slotkin plans to continue her outreach to Trump voters and other key constituencies as she considers a potential 2028 presidential run. The Democratic National Committee will also decide the order of the 2028 presidential primary calendar in the coming months, with Iowa and Michigan both vying for an early Midwest slot.
The takeaway
Slotkin's efforts to engage directly with Trump voters in Iowa highlight the Democratic Party's broader challenge of reconnecting with working-class and rural voters in the Midwest. Her ability to bridge that divide could shape the future direction of the party and her own political ambitions.
