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Marshall County voters are sending Democrat Mike Tupper of Marshalltown to the state legislature next year as the new District 52 representative.
With 5,816 votes, or 55 percent of the 10,655 total ballots, he beat incumbent Republican David Blom of Marshalltown, who garnered 4,831, or 45 percent. There were eight write-ins.
Blom did not respond to the T-R before this issue went to print, but on Tuesday night, he issued a statement on his Facebook page.
“Tonight's election results were not what we had hoped for, but I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity to have served the people of Marshall County in the Iowa House of Representatives. I want to congratulate Mike Tupper on his victory and wish him the best as he takes on the responsibility of representing our community. Serving as your State Representative has been one of the greatest honors of my life. From advocating for our veterans and strengthening our schools to standing up for taxpayers and helping neighbors navigate difficult challenges, I have always put the people of Marshall County first,” Blom wrote. “To my family, friends, volunteers, and everyone who supported our campaign, thank you. Whether you knocked on doors, made phone calls, put up a yard sign, or simply offered a word of encouragement, your support has meant more to me than you will ever know. While I am disappointed in tonight's outcome, I am proud of what we have accomplished together. I've always believed that public service isn't about holding an office. It's about making a difference in the lives of others. Marshall County is my home. My commitment to serving this community doesn't end with an election. Thank you, Marshall County, for placing your trust in me and giving me the extraordinary privilege of serving you. It has truly been an honor.”
This was Blom's second time running for the District 52 seat. A sheet metal worker and former legislative clerk, he defeated incumbent Democrat Sue Cahill in 2024 to serve the district covering the city of Marshalltown and the southeastern quadrant of Marshall County.
Tupper, the former Marshalltown police chief who retired after 13 years in 2025, watched the results roll in Tuesday night, Election Day, with his family. After all 10 precincts were counted, he said a couple friends were going to join the small victory celebration.
"I have work in the morning, and it's a school night," he said.
Tupper was humbled that so many Marshall County voters chose him to be their voice in the Iowa House of Representatives. With this being his first time seeking an elected position, he did not know what to expect. Tupper and his campaign just decided to do the best they could with the resources they had.
One thing that surprised him in the experience was learning how tribal people tend to be when it comes to politics.
"Growing up, Iowa was more purple," Tupper said. "But, a lot of people have a lot of concerns and they were not getting heard by the state government. They are speaking loudly at the ballot box. It's now my job to listen and represent the people of Marshall County."
He will begin his two-year term when the legislature reconvenes on Jan. 11, 2027.
"I'm excited," he said. "It has been a humbling experience. I look forward to serving Marshall County."
Contact Lana Bradstream at 641-753-6611 ext. 210 or lbradstream@timesrepublican.com.