Former Iran Hostage Runs for Congress in Wisconsin

Kevin Hermening, a Republican candidate, draws on his 444-day ordeal as a captive during the Iran hostage crisis.

Mar. 8, 2026 at 9:36am

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Kevin Hermening, a Wisconsin Republican running for the House, was a 20-year-old Marine senior sergeant when he became one of the 66 Americans taken hostage by Iran in November 1979. Hermening spent 444 days in captivity and is now drawing on his harrowing experience as he campaigns for Congress.

Why it matters

Hermening's personal history as a former Iran hostage gives him a unique perspective on US-Iran relations and national security issues. His campaign highlights the lasting impact of the Iran hostage crisis and the role it continues to play in American politics.

The details

Hermening was part of a group of 10 Marines who tried to destroy classified materials and documents before surrendering to the Iranians. He was held in solitary confinement for 43 days and witnessed the physical abuse of other captives. After his release, Hermening pursued his education and became a financial planner, but he has remained active in public service and is now running for Congress.

  • Hermening was taken hostage in November 1979 and held captive for 444 days.
  • He is running for Congress in the August 11, 2026 primary election.

The players

Kevin Hermening

A 66-year-old Wisconsin Republican running for the House of Representatives. Hermening was a 20-year-old Marine senior sergeant when he was taken hostage during the Iran hostage crisis in 1979.

Al Golacinski

A State Department security official who was handcuffed and blindfolded by the Iranians during the hostage crisis.

Thomas Ahern

The CIA station chief who spent 425 days in solitary confinement during the Iran hostage crisis.

Bill Keough

A civilian hostage and the superintendent of the American School in Tehran, who encouraged Hermening to pursue his education and get involved in his community after being released.

Robert Levinson

A former Drug Enforcement Agency and FBI employee who disappeared inside Iran in 2007.

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What they’re saying

“There were 10 of us who managed to hold out for an additional four hours, and during that time we were destroying classified materials and documents and computer gear, satellite equipment.”

— Kevin Hermening, Wisconsin Republican congressional candidate

“They had his hands cuffed behind his back, and about 25 guys with automatic weapons trained on him, and a noose around his neck. And they threatened to throw his body out of the second story window and hang him to death if we didn't open the door within 10 minutes.”

— Kevin Hermening, Wisconsin Republican congressional candidate

“He always said when we get out: Pursue your education, get involved in your community, build a life of relevance. And I've never forgotten those words.”

— Kevin Hermening, Wisconsin Republican congressional candidate

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

Hermening's personal experience as a former Iran hostage gives him a unique perspective on national security and foreign policy issues. His campaign highlights the lasting impact of the Iran hostage crisis and the role it continues to play in American politics.