MASON CITY – There has been no official announcement, but sources within the Republican Party tell NIT that local GOP leader Barbara Hovland plans to challenge Rep. Sharon Steckman for her seat in the Iowa legislature.
Barbara Hovland, 54, who resides in Mason City, currently serves as the Cerro Gordo GOP chairwoman. She has been deeply involved in the caucusing process and organizing the party locally.
“I take my responsibilities very serious in making sure Cerro Gordo has a successful caucus,” Mrs. Hovland recently wrote. Turnout was described as extremely high for Monday night Iowa caucuses.
Mrs. Hovland did not immediately respond to questions about her impending candidacy. She will be challenging Mrs. Steckman, who is serving her third term in the Iowa House. She is a retired Mason City educator and is known for her strong advocacy for increased funding for Iowa public schools.
Mrs. Steckman told NIT Monday that she had heard about a possible challenge in this fall’s election, but didn’t offer further comment. She was seeking signatures on a petition for her re-election.
