New ITR Foundation Poll Shows Continued Support for Pro-Taxpayer Policies

Download the ITR Foundation Poll

The latest ITR Foundation Poll reveals that Iowa voters have become significantly more optimistic about the direction of both the country and the state since September 2024. Additionally, the Republican advantage on the generic ballot remains strong, and support for taxpayer protection measures continues to hold firm.

According to the poll, nearly a majority of Iowa voters now feel optimistic about the direction of the country— a dramatic shift from September 2024, when two-thirds expressed pessimism. A similar trend is seen at the state level, where a majority now view Iowa’s trajectory positively, reversing a previous strong negative outlook. This optimism is largely driven by Republicans, who have become more favorable since the election.

“This poll reaffirms that Iowans want policies that protect taxpayers and keep the government in check,” said Chris Hagenow, ITR President. “With continued strong support for supermajority tax protections and property tax limits, Iowa voters are making it clear that fiscal responsibility is a priority.”

Strong Support for Pro-Taxpayer Measures

Iowa voters overwhelmingly support policies that protect taxpayers:

• 71% support requiring a supermajority to raise taxes (only 13% oppose), including 71% of unaffiliated voters.
  
• 66% back instituting a two percent property tax limit, with just 14% opposed.
  
• The flat income tax amendment remains popular at 46% support, 25% oppose, with support growing among unaffiliated voters (43% support, up from 38% in September).

Republicans Maintain Edge on Generic Ballot

Republicans continue to hold an advantage in the generic ballot, leading 47% to 39%, with a slightly higher number of undecided voters compared to September. While unaffiliated voters still lean toward Democrats (39%-34%), their support levels remain stable.

The poll also found that former President Donald Trump’s favorability rating remains steady at 50% favorable and 48% unfavorable, virtually unchanged from September. Governor Kim Reynolds has seen a slight improvement in her image (44% favorable, 51% unfavorable), while Senator Joni Ernst remains underwater (37% favorable, 45% unfavorable), particularly among Republicans and unaffiliated voters. The Iowa General Assembly’s favorability has also improved, rising from 28% to 34%, with gains among men and Republican voters.

Top Issues: Inflation, Economy, and Taxes

Iowans continue to prioritize economic issues, with inflation and the economy (24%) remaining the top concern. However, taxes and government spending have seen a sharp increase in importance, jumping from 9% in September to 16% now. Among Republicans, these two issues are nearly equally important.

Support for the Iowa DOGE Initiative and Task Force

The poll also found that a majority of voters support the Iowa DOGE initiative, with 43% opposed. Support is strongest among men, while unaffiliated voters remain split (44% support, 46% oppose). Similarly, the Iowa DOGE Task Force enjoys 50% support, with opposition much lower at 38%. Notably, women and unaffiliated voters show stronger support for a state-level DOGE than a federal one.