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Lindsay James
Politicians/Lindsay James
Lindsay James

Lindsay James

(D)
State Rep. (IA-71)
RunningU.S. House (District 2) · IA · Nov 3, 2026
About Lindsay James

About Lindsay

Lindsay James’ journey to public service began long before she decided to run for Congress. As a chaplain, she sat beside people in their hardest hours—listening without judgment, offering hope, and finding common ground where none seemed possible. Those moments taught her that each person matters, and their struggles deserve attention.

As a state representative, Lindsay James has been a voice that refuses to be drowned out—a dynamic force with a ready smile and the unshakable conviction: that government should serve the people, not the powerful, and that no one—no child, no farmer, no working family—should be pushed aside.

Rooted in Iowa values and guided by a deep moral compass, she leads with the kind of fire that speaks truth to power, painting a vision of Iowa where opportunity is not a privilege for the few but a promise to us all.

A Proven Record of Bringing People Together

In the legislature, Lindsay worked across party lines to:

Co-found Iowa’s first bipartisan, bicameral caucus—breaking down barriers between Republicans and Democrats to solve problems.

Expand access to affordable insulin, ensuring Iowans can get the life-saving medication they need without facing financial ruin.

Protect mobile home residents from predatory corporate landlords looking to price-gouge hardworking families.

Champion affordable housing and mental health care, advocating for policies that strengthen communities from the ground up.

Whether she’s working across the aisle to pass bipartisan solutions, or standing firm against extremist attacks on Iowa’s values, Lindsay puts people first – always.

Fighting for Your Future

Lindsay is running for Congress to level the playing field for all Iowans and restore hope in the American dream. Too many Iowans are facing impossible choices just to get by.

From the dad dipping into emergency savings to buy pizza for his child’s birthday, to the mom deciding between a winter coat or food on the table, to the senior choosing whether to pay for life-saving prescriptions or rent—these are the daily struggles of our neighbors.

From young families burdened by skyrocketing childcare costs to single parents forced to choose between caring for their kids or saving for a home, every Iowan deserves leaders who truly see them—and who will never stop fighting for them.

In Congress, Lindsay will fight for:

Good-paying jobs that pay the bills and allow Iowans to save for the future.

High-quality, affordable, and accessible healthcare for every family.

Strong schools that keep our kids safe and prepare them for the jobs of the future.

Clean water and a healthy environment for generations to come.

Lindsay’s Promise

Politics should be about solving problems, not playing partisan games. Lindsay James will listen, lead with compassion, bring people together, and build a future where every Iowa family can build the life they deserve—no matter their ZIP code.

Sourced verbatim from lindsayforiowa.com
Role Summary: State Representative

State representatives write and vote on state laws and the state budget. Each represents a district in the legislature's lower chamber, which is called the House, the Assembly, or the House of Delegates depending on the state. Most serve two-year terms.

Quick Facts
Party
Democrat
Age
45
Religion
Christian
Birthplace
Portland, OR
Residence
Dubuque, IA
Born
December 6, 1980
Family
Husband: Christopher; 2 Children: Luke, Ginny
Contact
515-281-3221lindsay.james@legis.iowa.govwww.legis.iowa.gov/legislators/legislator?ga=91&personID=27039
Election Info
District71, IA
Current Term01/01/2023 — Present
First Elected11/08/2022
Last Elected11/05/2024
Education
Graduated
National Democratic Training Committee
Graduated
Distinctly Dubuque
Masters, Divinity
Fuller Theological Seminary
2004-2007
BA, Communications
Santa Clara University
1999-2003
Graduated
New Leaders Council Institute
2016
Graduated
City of Dubuque Life Citizen's Academy
2015
Political Career4
Representative
Iowa State House of Representatives
2019-2022
Assistant Minority Leader
Iowa State House of Representatives
2021-2022
Representative
Iowa State House of Representatives
2023-present
Minority Whip
Iowa State House of Representatives
2023-2025
Professional Background11
Minister of Young Adults and Children
Menlo Park Presbytarian Church
2007-2010
Interfaith Chaplain
Endicott College
2012-2015
Associate Pastor
Westminster Presbytarian Church
2016-2017
Adjunct Faculty
University of Dubuque
2015-2017
Director
Loras College Peace Institute
2016-2018
Pastoral Associate
Bethany Presbytarian Church
2011
Chaplain Intern
Methodist Hospital of Southern California
2007
Residential Community Co-Coordinator
Fuller Theological Seminary
2006-2007
Pastoral Intern
Knox Presbyterian Church
2006-2007
Ministry Intern for Urban and Global Intern
University Presbyterian Church
2003-2004
College Ministry Intern
Menlo Park Presbyterian Church
2003
Organizations8
Children of Abraham Interfaith Council Board
Member
2015-present
Iowa State University Extension and Outreach Council
Member
Westminster Presbyterian Church
Pastor
2016-2017
Green Dubuque
Committee Member
Irving Elementary School Parent Teacher Association
President
Dubuque Community Development Advisory Commission
Chair
2015-2018
Dubuque County Extension Council
Member
National Organization for the Advancement of Colored People Dubuque Chapter
Chair of Religious Affairs
2016-2018
Committees5
Commerce Committee
Environmental Protection Committee
Judiciary Committee
Subcommittee on Transportation, Infrastructure, and Capitals Appropriations
Ways and Means Committee
Quick Facts
Party
Democrat
Age
45
Religion
Christian
Birthplace
Portland, OR
Residence
Dubuque, IA
Born
December 6, 1980
Family
Husband: Christopher; 2 Children: Luke, Ginny
Contact
515-281-3221lindsay.james@legis.iowa.govwww.legis.iowa.gov/legislators/legislator?ga=91&personID=27039