In an unexpected scene, University of Iowa professor Christina Bohannan addressed a group of voters in Columbus Junction, Iowa. This small town resides in a rural county where Donald Trump garnered significant support. Bohannan, a Democratic candidate for Congress, is familiar with the challenge. She explained, “It’s a big district. It takes a lot of time to get around, get people to know you and trust you.”

Bohannan has previously contested Republican Rep. Mariannette Miller-Meeks in Iowa’s 1st Congressional District, but narrowly lost both in 2022 and 2024. Now, she’s relying on Trump’s waning popularity and issues like healthcare and economic concerns to tilt the scales in her favor. A victory could significantly influence Democratic efforts to regain the U.S. House.

Reaching the Rural Voters

Bohannan is actively campaigning in rural counties to narrow the Republican lead. She lost Louisa County by nearly 1,400 votes in the past; now, a more aggressive ground game is underway, starting canvassing efforts earlier than in previous years. Her campaign team carries a letter introducing Bohannan to voters.

Bohannan sees Iowa as “a good, common-sense state full of fair-minded people.”

Residents like Cindy Starr and Tim Knutson had not previously attended her campaign events. They decided to visit her at a popular local bar and grill.

Bohannan’s Image Challenge

Bohannan’s role as a University of Iowa law professor poses a challenge. The area often views the university as a bastion for liberals. She stresses her working-class roots and family’s healthcare struggles as relatable experiences for the district. Despite being labeled a “radical progressive,” she advocates for financial prudence and opposes overregulation.

Gaining Ground

Bohannan is also focusing on urban and suburban areas like Johnson and Scott counties. She improved her showing in Scott County over the years, with close results prompting her third congressional bid. Recent trends show increasing Democratic voter registration in Scott County, providing potential momentum.

“Every month it’s been moving,” stated Terry Olsen, vice chairman of the Scott County Democrats.

Challenges Facing Miller-Meeks

Bohannan believes Trump’s policies could negatively impact Miller-Meeks. She criticized Miller-Meeks for supporting measures that harm local economies, such as Trump’s tariffs and defense spending. She also pointed to challenges in healthcare facilities reported in her district.

Miller-Meeks defended her record, asserting that her decisions support patients over big businesses. However, Bohannan emphasized voter awareness of economic strains, particularly in grocery and fuel prices.