Cherry Renee Hardman , a Democrat, represents Iowa Senate District 16 . She won a special election on December 30, 2025, defeating Republican Lucas Loftin to become the first Black woman elected to the Iowa Senate, and was sworn in on January 12, 2026. Her victory helped Democrats block a Republican supermajority. Previously, she served on the West Des Moines City Council from 2017 to 2026, including as Mayor Pro Tem, and was the first African-American woman elected to that body. Notable achievements include induction into the Iowa Women's Hall of Fame in 2014, recognition as the 2020 “Forty Under 40” Alumna of the Year, and Top 25 Business Leaders in the Metro. She currently serves as president and CEO of Lutheran Services in Iowa.

Education and Political Experience

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in psychology and an MBA from Drake University.
• Professional Experience: Founder of Hardman Consulting; CEO of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Iowa ; president of human resources and chief diversity officer at Broadlawns Medical Center ; president and CEO of Lutheran Services in Iowa .
• Political Experience: West Des Moines City Council ; Iowa State Senate District 16 . Serves on committees including Government Oversight, Health and Human Services, Local Government , Natural Resources and Environment, and Transportation. Priorities include strong public schools, safe communities, affordable housing, healthcare access, childcare, and economic opportunity.