Senator Molly Donahue is a Democrat representing Iowa Senate District 37, which includes Marion and parts of southeast and northeast Cedar Rapids. She serves as Assistant Democratic Leader and is a lifelong resident of the Cedar Rapids metro area, where she has lived in Marion for over 30 years. An educator specializing in special education and at-risk youth for the Cedar Rapids Community School District, she was elected to the Iowa Senate in 2022 after serving two terms in the Iowa House. Notable positions include Ranking Member of the Workforce Committee and Health and Human Services Appropriations Subcommittee, with additional service on Appropriations, Education, Health and Human Services, and Rules and Administration committees. Her priorities focus on public education, funding equity, workforce development, child welfare, fair labor practices, and childcare access.

Education and Political Experience

• Education: Graduated from Washington High School in Cedar Rapids; B.A. in Special Education from the University of Northern Iowa; holds an MEd.
• Political Experience: Elected to Iowa House ; entered politics advocating for education reform through involvement in the Cedar Rapids Education Association; over 33 years in public education informing her legislative roles on key committees.