President Donald J. Trump has officially endorsed Joe Mitchell to represent Iowa’s 2nd Congressional District in the 2026 election, praising the former Trump administration appointee and youngest-ever Iowa state legislator as a “MAGA Patriot” and a “proven leader” who will fight for America First priorities. In a Truth Social post dated January 27, 2026, Trump issued his “Complete and Total Endorsement,” citing Mitchell’s service at the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, his legislative record in Iowa, and his commitment to growing the economy, cutting taxes, supporting farmers, advancing energy independence, securing the border, and defending the Second Amendment.
Trump’s endorsement comes early in the 2026 cycle for Iowa’s 2nd Congressional District, an open and highly competitive southeastern Iowa seat that includes Davenport, Iowa City, Ottumwa, and surrounding rural counties. The district narrowly favored Trump in the 2024 presidential election and remains a top Democratic target, making it one of the most closely watched House races in the Midwest.
Mitchell, who served in the Trump administration at HUD and previously made history as Iowa’s youngest state legislator, has centered his campaign on core MAGA priorities. These include tax cuts and deregulation to drive economic growth, expanding Made in the U.S.A. manufacturing, promoting American energy dominance, securing the southern border, combating migrant crime, supporting the military and veterans, safeguarding election integrity, and defending Second Amendment rights. Trump highlighted Mitchell’s dedication to public service and described him as a candidate with the courage and judgment to deliver results.
The endorsement gives Mitchell a major early advantage in what is expected to be a competitive Republican primary for the open seat. Trump’s backing carries significant weight in Iowa, where his influence remains strong among GOP primary voters. Trump described Mitchell as someone who “will never let you down,” signaling full confidence in his leadership and alignment with the America First movement.
IA-02 has been a battleground district in recent election cycles, with narrow margins and high turnout potential in urban centers like Iowa City and Davenport balanced against heavily Republican rural counties. With Trump’s endorsement, Mitchell is well-positioned to consolidate the GOP base, attract national donor support, and strengthen Republican prospects in a district that has trended toward Trump in recent elections.
With his youth, executive branch experience, and legislative record, Mitchell is emerging as a leading contender to carry the America First banner in Iowa’s 2nd District as Republicans look to hold the seat in 2026.
