Kim Reynolds Then and Now

Kim Reynolds Then

Kim Reynolds, born Kimberly Kay Strawn on August 4, 1959, in St. Charles, Iowa, has had a multifaceted educational journey that reflects her evolving interests and ambitions. 

After completing her high school education at the Interstate 35 Community School District in 1977, she pursued various courses at Northwest Missouri State University. 

Her studies included business, consumer sciences, and clothing sales and design; however, she did not complete a degree during her time there.

In the late 1980s, Reynolds continued her education by attending Southeastern Community College, where she sought to expand her knowledge and skills. 

Following this, she enrolled in accounting classes at Southwestern Community College from 1992 to 1995, showcasing her commitment to personal and professional development. 

Despite her efforts, she did not earn a formal degree from these institutions, which indicates a non-traditional path that prioritized practical skills over conventional academic credentials.

Reynolds’ educational pursuits culminated in 2016 when she was awarded a Bachelor of Liberal Studies degree from Iowa State University just before she took office as governor. 

This degree featured concentrations in political science, business management, and communications, aligning perfectly with her political aspirations. 

Reynolds’ diverse educational background has equipped her with a broad range of knowledge and skills that have undoubtedly contributed to her effectiveness as a leader in Iowa’s political landscape. 

Her journey highlights the value of lifelong learning and adaptability in achieving one’s goals, even without a linear path through traditional higher education.

Related Article: Doug Ducey Then and Now

Kim Reynolds Political Career

Kim Reynolds’ political career began with her election as Clarke County treasurer in 1994, where she served four terms before making her way into state politics. 

Her tenure as treasurer laid the groundwork for her political ambitions and provided her with valuable experience in financial management and public service. 

In November 2008, Reynolds transitioned to a legislative role by winning a seat in the Iowa Senate, representing the 48th district. 

Her campaign focused on various issues, and she successfully defeated her opponents, including the Democratic nominee Ruth Smith and independent candidate Rodney Schmidt.

Related Article: Val Demings Then and Now

Reynolds’ rise continued when she was chosen as the running mate for Republican gubernatorial nominee Terry Branstad in 2010. 

Their successful ticket in the general election resulted in her becoming Iowa’s lieutenant governor on January 14, 2011. 

During her time as lieutenant governor, Reynolds took on several key roles, including co-chairing the Governor’s Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) Advisory Council and representing Branstad on various boards, which allowed her to further her influence in state governance.

Her political career reached a significant milestone in May 2017 when she ascended to the governorship following Branstad’s resignation to become the U.S. ambassador to China. 

Related Article: Ralph Northam Then and Now

Reynolds made history as Iowa’s first female governor, a notable achievement in a state where women have historically been underrepresented in high political offices. 

Upon taking office, Reynolds faced challenges regarding the vacancy in the lieutenant governor position, as Iowa law raised questions about her authority to appoint a successor. 

To navigate this, she designated Adam Gregg as the acting lieutenant governor, clarifying that he would not hold the official title to avoid legal complications.

In her role as governor, Reynolds focused on various policies, including tax reforms and education initiatives. 

Related Article: Katie Porter Then and Now

Notably, she proposed significant changes to Iowa’s tax code, including cuts to income tax rates and a potential increase in the sales tax, although some of her proposals faced opposition in the state legislature. 

Her administration’s policies have often aligned with Republican priorities, and she has supported key aspects of the Trump administration’s agenda, including immigration and environmental deregulation.

Reynolds was re-elected for a full term in 2018 and again in 2022, demonstrating her sustained support among Iowa voters. 

Related Article: Tim Scott Then and Now

Throughout her governorship, she has made controversial decisions, such as signing restrictive abortion legislation and enacting laws that impact voting access. 

Her leadership style has garnered both praise and criticism, as she navigates the complexities of governing a politically divided state while maintaining her party’s agenda. 

Reynolds’ journey from treasurer to governor highlights her political acumen and ability to adapt to the evolving landscape of Iowa politics.

Related Article: Eric Swalwell Then and Now

Kim Reynolds’ Personal Life

Kim Reynolds married Kevin Reynolds in 1982, and together they raised three children, illustrating the importance of family in her life. 

The couple’s long-standing marriage has been a cornerstone of her personal identity, providing support throughout her political career. 

As a family-oriented individual, Reynolds often emphasizes her values and beliefs, which are further reflected in her attendance at the Lutheran Church of Hope. 

Related Article: Gretchen Whitmer Then and Now

In September 2023, Kevin Reynolds faced a significant health challenge when he was diagnosed with lung cancer, a situation that undoubtedly weighs heavily on both him and his family. 

This diagnosis not only affects their personal lives but also resonates with Reynolds’ public persona, as it brings to light the realities many families face with serious health issues. 

The support system surrounding her family during this challenging time underscores the importance of community and faith in navigating life’s difficulties, even amidst the pressures of political office.

Related Article: Jared Polis Then and Now

Kim Reynolds Now

Kim Reynolds, currently 65 years old, has been serving as the 43rd governor of Iowa since 2017, making significant strides in her political career as a prominent member of the Republican Party. 

Before her tenure as governor, she held the position of lieutenant governor from 2011 to 2017, where she honed her leadership skills and established a platform that aligns with her party’s values. 

Reynolds’ governance has been characterized by a series of contentious policies, particularly in the realm of social issues.

Related Article: Mark Meadows Then and Now

In 2023, Reynolds signed into law a six-week abortion ban in Iowa, a move that reflects her staunch anti-abortion stance and has sparked considerable debate within the state and beyond. 

This legislation is part of a broader trend among some Republican-led states to impose stricter regulations on abortion access, often in response to the U.S. Supreme Court’s overturning of Roe v. Wade. 

Her actions have solidified her position as a key player in the national conversation on reproductive rights, aligning her with a conservative agenda that seeks to limit access to abortion services.

Related Article: Dan Crenshaw Then and Now

In 2024, Reynolds continued to push her agenda by signing a controversial bill that allows state law enforcement to arrest undocumented migrants who had previously been deported or denied entry into the United States. 

This law empowers state courts to issue deportation orders for these individuals, reflecting a strict stance on immigration that has become a hallmark of her administration. 

Additionally, on February 1, 2024, she introduced a bill that defines “man” and “woman” based on reproductive anatomy, further emphasizing her commitment to traditional definitions of gender. 

Related Article: Doug Jones Then and Now

This legislation also mandates that official identification documents reflect individuals’ sex at birth, sparking discussions about gender identity and rights in Iowa.

As she navigates these complex and often polarizing issues, Reynolds continues to shape Iowa’s political landscape, appealing to her base while facing criticism from opponents. 

Her policies have significant implications for the state’s social fabric, and as she moves forward in her governorship, the effects of her legislative choices will be closely monitored both locally and nationally.

Related Article: Mazie Hirono Then and Now

FAQs