Lt. Gov. Adam Gregg steps down to focus on family, named Iowa Bank Association CEO

DES MOINES, Iowa — Lt. Governor Adam Gregg is stepping down from his position effective Tuesday, Sept. 3, 2024.

Gregg was named acting lieutenant governor in May 2017. He was elected to the position in 2018 and 2022.

After Tuesday's announcement, Gregg was named as the Iowa Bankers Association President and CEO.

In a press release Governor Kim Reynolds said Gregg is going to focus more time on his family.

“Adam has been a tremendous partner and an important part of my team over the last seven years, and I greatly appreciate his service to Iowans,” said Governor Reynolds. “It comes as no surprise that he would choose to step down to prioritize his personal life. Adam is a devoted husband and father, and there is nothing more important to him than his family. Even as lieutenant governor, he has made time to coach his young son and daughter, be involved at their school, and participate together in church activities. This most certainly is the right decision for Adam, and I wish him, Cari and their children only the best.”

Gregg said he has a lot of respect for Reynolds and her leadership.

“It has been a great honor to serve alongside Governor Reynolds for seven years. I have enormous respect for her and her leadership, and she will always be one of the most important mentors in my life. I don’t have the words to express the profound gratitude I feel toward Governor Reynolds,” Lt. Governor Adam Gregg stated.

“However, as Scripture reminds us, for everything there is a season, and there is a time to every purpose under heaven. I feel my time in public service must come to a close. This season of my life needs to be focused on my family. My kids are growing up too fast, and statewide elected offices force me to miss more of their lives than I can accept. While difficult, the decision to resign from this role allows me to honor my most important commitment – my family.”

Under Iowa Code, the governor makes an appointment to fill a vacancy in the office of the lieutenant governor, and the appointee serves for the balance of the unexpired term.

Until Gov. Reynolds makes an appointment later this fall, the president of the Senate will be next in line of succession.

Gregg's news is pulling responses from both Iowa Democrats and Republicans Tuesday afternoon.

Iowa State Auditor Rob Sand said,“I want to thank Lieutenant Governor Adam Gregg for his years of service to the people of Iowa. He was always capable of seeing past disagreements to focus on places to work together.”

Iowa Attorney General Brenna Bird said, "[He]is the epitome of what it means to be a leader. He is a leader for his family, a leader in his faith, and a leader for our state. I have nothing but admiration for the incredible work Adam has done to move our state forward and his decision to focus on his family at this time."