Iowa State Rep. Shannon Latham to Step Down

Latham cites new role as Iowa FFA Foundation executive director as reason for not seeking reelection

Published on Mar. 10, 2026

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State Rep. Shannon Latham, a Republican representing Iowa's House District 55, has announced she will not seek reelection to the state legislature. Latham has served in the Iowa House since 2021 and currently chairs the Economic Development Appropriations Subcommittee. She cited accepting the position of executive director of the Iowa FFA Foundation as the reason for her decision, saying it requires her full attention.

Why it matters

Latham's decision not to run for reelection creates an open seat in the Iowa House, which could impact the balance of power in the state legislature. The Iowa FFA Foundation plays a key role in supporting agricultural education and youth development programs across the state.

The details

Latham was first elected to the Iowa House in 2020 and has served on several committees, including Agriculture, Appropriations, Commerce, and Economic Growth and Technology. She has represented House District 55, which includes Franklin and Hamilton counties and parts of Story and Wright counties.

  • Latham has served in the Iowa House since 2021.
  • Latham's current term ends in January 2027.

The players

Shannon Latham

A Republican state representative from Sheffield, Iowa, who has served in the Iowa House since 2021.

Iowa FFA Foundation

A nonprofit organization that supports agricultural education and youth development programs across Iowa.

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What they’re saying

“It had been a dream of mine to serve in the Iowa Legislature ever since I traveled to Washington, D.C., in high school. Being your voice in the Iowa House has been an absolute honor.”

— Shannon Latham, State Representative (radioonthego.com)

What’s next

Latham will continue to represent House District 55 through the remainder of her current term, which ends in January 2027. The Iowa Republican Party will need to nominate a candidate to run for the open seat in the next election cycle.

The takeaway

Latham's decision not to seek reelection highlights the ongoing challenges of balancing public service with other professional commitments. Her departure from the Iowa House creates an opportunity for new leadership in the state legislature, while also underscoring the importance of the Iowa FFA Foundation's work in supporting agricultural education and youth development programs.