Reynolds Remains Least Popular Governor for Eighth Consecutive Time

I doubt these are the poll results that Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds wanted to see in her final year in elected office. Reynolds is not running for re-election in 2026, and a new poll reveals that decision is just fine with most Iowans.

The Most Unpopular Governor in America

CBS2 reports that the group Morning Consult spoke to thousands of registered voters in all 50 states between October and December of 2025. They then broke those numbers down state-by-state to reveal the governors who are the most unpopular. And for the eighth quarter in a row, the most unpopular governor in America is Kim Reynolds from Iowa.

CBS2 reports that the survey of registered voters shows that 49% of people surveyed in Iowa have an unfavorable view of her performance, while 43% approve. 8% say they didn't know, or have an opinion.

You could argue that Alaska Governor Michael Dunleavy actually has it worse. CBS2 reports that he is tied with Reynolds with a 49% dissaproval rating, and only 37% approval. 14% of Alaska voters say they don't have an opinion.

So what has Iowa voters so up in arms about their governor? As political experts will often tell you, "It's the economy, stupid." KCRG reports that economic data from last year ranked Iowa's economy dead last in the nation. Out of 50 states, Iowa ranked last in economic activity, 48th in economic health, and 29th in innovation potential. When economic numbers are that low, voters want change to matter, regardless of which party is in power.