Rob Sand Makes a Winning Case in First Gubernatorial Debate

DAVENPORT, IA – Tonight, State Auditor and nominee for governor Rob Sand proved that he is the right choice to serve as Iowa’s next governor. While Zach Lahn spent the debate dodging questions about his frequent flights to Kansas, his running mate being under criminal investigation, and running from his record as a paid political operative, Rob laid out a clear vision to lower costs, make health care more affordable and accessible, restore accountability to state government, and tackle Iowa’s cancer crisis. 

Deputy Campaign Manager Emma O’Brien released the following statement:

“Tonight on the debate stage, Iowans saw two very different visions for Iowa: Rob Sand’s, a committed public servant with a clear plan to move Iowa forward, and Zach Lahn’s, a paid political operative who would be a part-time governor and who wants to keep Iowa on the its current failed path that has left Iowans behind. Iowans are ready to turn the page on the last decade of one-party control that has saddled Iowa with a struggling economy, public schools in the middle of the pack, and a skyrocketing cancer crisis. That’s why, on November 3rd, Iowans will elect Rob Sand as their next governor and build an Iowa that’s not redder or bluer, but better and truer.” 

Iowans know and trust Rob Sand after his seven years as Iowa’s Chief Public Corruption prosecutor and two terms as State Auditor. They also know him because he shows up in their communities every year. Rob just wrapped up his 2026 100 Town Hall Tour and has held 900 public town halls in all 99 Iowa counties throughout his career. Rob Sand has spent years listening directly to Iowans in their communities and understanding the challenges they face. He has turned those conversations into seven comprehensive policy plans that lay out a clear vision to move Iowa forward and demonstrate that he is ready to lead on day one. Rob Sand is a public servant, not a politician, and after years of showing up, listening, and delivering for Iowans, they know exactly who he is and what he stands for.