Mike Zimmer is a Democratic Iowa State Senator representing District 35 in eastern Iowa, which includes Clinton, DeWitt, Maquoketa, and portions of Clinton, Jackson, and Scott counties. Born in 1963 or 1964 in Corpus Christi, Texas, he resides in DeWitt and was elected in a special election on January 28, 2025, defeating Republican Katie Whittington by nearly four points to flip the seat from Republican control; he was sworn in on February 10, 2025. An education professional and small business owner , he serves on committees including Agriculture , Education, Health and Human Services, Natural Resources, and Transportation. Notable achievements include expanding dual enrollment, AP, and apprenticeship programs for high school students, developing outdoor classrooms, student-built airplane clubs, and support for students with disabilities during his education career. Married to Tammy for 42 years, they have five children and ten grandchildren; he is active in St. Ann Catholic Church, Knights of Columbus, and community service like Humble Dwellings.

Education and Political Experience

• Education: Graduated from North Scott High School; BA in Industrial Technology Teaching from the University of Northern Iowa; MA in Educational Leadership from the University of Iowa.
• Professional Experience: Taught Industrial Technology for nearly 20 years at East Central and Central DeWitt High Schools; 17 years in administration as assistant principal and principal at North Scott and Pleasant Valley High Schools; Director of Secondary Education for Pleasant Valley Community School District; currently Career & Technology Education Consultant for Mississippi Bend Area Education Agency.
• Political Experience: President of Central DeWitt School Board; first term in Iowa Senate , first elected via special election to replace resigned Republican Chris Cournoyer.