Challenges Faced by Kim Reynolds: Obstacles and Turning Points

A closer look at the defining struggles that shaped Kim Reynolds's life and career.

Kim Reynolds is the 43rd and current governor of Iowa, serving since 2017. A Republican, she holds the distinction of being the first female governor in Iowa's history. Before becoming governor, Reynolds served as the lieutenant governor under Terry Branstad. Reynolds' political career has focused on issues relevant to Iowa, and she has held various roles in state government prior to becoming governor.

Sections (4)

Full Timeline Career & Achievements Challenges & Struggles Controversies & Scandals

2018: Acknowledged Impact of Trump's Trade Policies

In 2018, Kim Reynolds acknowledged that Donald Trump's trade and tariff policies were hurting American farmers.

2018: Proposed Medicaid Cuts

In 2018, Kim Reynolds proposed cutting $10 million from Medicaid.

January 2019: Fetal Heartbeat Bill Struck Down

In January 2019, an Iowa state judge struck down the "fetal heartbeat bill" as unconstitutional.

March 9, 2020: Proclamation of Disaster Emergency Signed

On March 9, 2020, Kim Reynolds signed a Proclamation of Disaster Emergency in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

April 2020: COVID-19 Restrictions and Reopening Stance

In April 2020, Iowa health officials advised Reynolds to enforce face coverings and not ease restrictions related to COVID-19. Reynolds responded by taking the stance that it was better to reopen the economy and encourage people to be responsible and wear masks.

April 2020: TestIowa Program Contract Signed

In April 2020, Kim Reynolds signed a $26 million no-bid contract with Nomi Health to develop TestIowa, a COVID-19 testing program, on the advice of Ashton Kutcher.

July 2020: Reynolds Overrides School Districts' Reopening Plans

In July 2020, Reynolds invalidated some school districts' plans to limit in-person classes, requiring students to spend at least half of their schooling in classrooms.

July 2020: Opposition to Local Mask Mandates

In July 2020, Reynolds stated that local mask mandates in Iowa were "not appropriate" and unlawful, seeking to block them despite recommendations from health organizations.

September 2020: Revocation of CDC Quarantine Guidelines

In September 2020, the Reynolds administration revoked CDC guidelines recommending a 14-day quarantine for people exposed to the virus if both the infected person and close contacts were wearing masks properly.

November 2020: Mask Mandate Implemented After Election

After the November 2020 election, Kim Reynolds ordered the mandatory wearing of masks at large gatherings in Iowa.

November 2020: COVID-19 Peak in Iowa

COVID-19 peaked in Iowa in November 2020, contributing to Reynolds having the lowest approval rating of any governor in the nation for her handling of the pandemic.

November 2020: Statewide Mask Mandate Issued

In November 2020, Reynolds issued a statewide mask mandate, requiring individuals over age 2 to wear masks in indoor public spaces, reversing her previous stance.

2020: Proposed Sales Tax Increase

In 2020, Kim Reynolds proposed a one-cent increase in the state sales tax.

2020: Poor Approval Ratings for COVID-19 Handling

In 2020, Kim Reynolds received poor approval ratings for her handling of the COVID-19 pandemic.

January 2021: Criticism over COVID-19 Testing

After the testing came to light in January 2021, Polk County Supervisor Matt McCoy criticized Reynolds, and State Auditor Rob Sand began an investigation into whether special treatment was accorded to political donors over essential workers and vulnerable persons.