Governor Reynolds’ Achievements and Tax Reforms: A National Model for Growth
Iowa has undergone a remarkable transformation over the past six years, largely driven by Governor Kim Reynolds’ bold and innovative tax reforms. Her leadership has not only put Iowa on the map for pro-growth policies but has earned her national recognition. The Tax Foundation honored her with the 2024 Distinguished Service Award, and she received the highest score on the Cato Institute’s 2024 Fiscal Report Card for Governors.
Cato praised Reynolds, stating:
“Kim Reynolds of Iowa has been a lean budgeter and dedicated tax reformer since entering office in 2017. She received the highest score on this report. Iowa’s general fund spending has risen at just 2.3 percent annually since Reynolds took office. She has greatly simplified and reduced Iowa’s income taxes. The individual income tax was converted from a nine-bracket system with a top rate of 8.98 percent to a 3.8 percent flat tax; the corporate tax rate was slashed from 9.8 percent to 5.5 percent. The governor also approved school choice reforms, allowing all students to opt for education savings accounts (ESAs) to cover private schooling costs.”
Governor Reynolds’ tax reforms are among the most significant in recent history, and no other governor in America today can claim a record as impressive when it comes to promoting pro-growth, pro-taxpayer policies. Under her leadership, Iowa has enacted historic changes—cutting taxes for both individuals and businesses, simplifying the tax code, and creating a more competitive landscape for economic growth.
It’s important to recognize the scale of these achievements. While states like California may be focused on housing policies or environmental regulations, Iowa is leading the way by implementing practical changes that will fuel economic growth for generations. By reducing the tax burden on families and businesses, Iowa is laying a strong foundation for long-term success. These policies aren’t just about short-term gains—they’re about positioning Iowa to thrive well into the future.
As we celebrate Governor Reynolds’ accomplishments, it’s clear that the impact of her tax reforms goes far beyond what many other states have been able to achieve. She has set a new standard for governing with a focus on economic growth and fiscal responsibility, and Iowans are already reaping the benefits of these forward-thinking policies.
The changes we’ve seen in Iowa are reshaping the state’s economy in ways that will last for generations. This is why it’s essential to keep highlighting these achievements. Governor Reynolds and Iowa legislators are showing the rest of the nation what can be accomplished when leaders prioritize growth and opportunity, and the recognition they’re receiving is well-deserved.
Iowa’s economy isn’t just being revived—it’s being relaunched for the future, thanks to the strong leadership and vision of Governor Kim Reynolds.