In a speech at the Iowa Association of Business and Industry conference, Democratic gubernatorial candidate and current State Auditor Rob Sand emphasized bipartisanship as he campaigns against Republican nominee Zach Lahn ahead of the 2026 Iowa gubernatorial election.

Sand highlighted Iowa's economic and healthcare challenges after more than a decade of Republican trifecta control but stressed that one-party dominance, whether Democratic or Republican, leads to similar issues, citing examples like California and New York.

He advocated for collaboration with the Republican-controlled legislature, noting the narrow majorities in both chambers that will require cross-party support for legislation.

Sand addressed concerns about recent tax reforms, acknowledging some benefits but expressing worry over the state's ongoing budget deficit, which he described as a 'fiscal time bomb.' He criticized the use of one-time federal funds for recurring expenses and warned that this approach is unsustainable.To address the deficit, Sand proposed exploring new revenue sources, including legalizing and taxing recreational cannabis.The race is considered a toss-up, with the seat open due to term-limited Republican Gov.Kim Reynolds.Sand, who has led in fundraising, plans a 100 Town Hall Tour and continues to position himself as a moderate focused on reasonable solutions.

Republican leaders, including Iowa GOP Chair Jeff Kaufmann, have rallied behind Lahn, accusing Sand of pursuing policies that would increase taxes and government size.No joint debates have been scheduled yet.