Cherielynn Westrich is a Republican Iowa State Senator representing District 13, which includes parts of Wapello County such as Ottumwa. Born on January 21, 1966, in St. Louis, Missouri, she resides in Ottumwa and owns MalWood USA LLC, manufacturing hydraulic clutch pedal kits as a professional car builder specializing in pre-1970s restorations. Notable achievements include defeating incumbent Democrat Mary Gaskill in the 2020 Iowa House election for District 81 and winning the 2022 Iowa Senate election for District 13 . She serves on Senate committees including Ethics, Judiciary, Local Government, Natural Resources and Environment, and State Government, and vice-chairs the Justice System Appropriations Subcommittee. Westrich volunteers with the Heartland Humane Society, serves on the Ottumwa Symphony Orchestra and Midwest Ford Show boards, and is a member of the Izaak Walton League and a Friend of the National Rifle Association.

Education and Political Experience

• Education: Attended Jefferson College in Hillsboro, Missouri .
• Political Experience:
  • Iowa House of Representatives, District 81 ; served on Public Safety , Commerce, Judiciary, and Local Government committees.
  • Iowa State Senate, District 13 .
  • Unsuccessful 2018 run for Iowa House District 81 .