Iowa state representative Lindsay James missed more than half of the votes cast in the state House during 2025 as she campaigned for a seat in the U.S. House of Representatives, according to records.
James, a Democrat representing House District 28, cast votes in only 44% of the roll calls during the legislative session, Fox News reported. This occurred while she was actively seeking the Republican-held 3rd Congressional District seat.
Republicans have seized on the voting record, with one local GOP official calling James out for her absence. The criticism centers on James's stated emphasis on a "strong work ethic" during her campaign, which critics argue is contradicted by her legislative attendance record.
James's campaign has defended her attendance, stating that her absence was necessary to engage with voters across the district and that she maintained communication with her legislative colleagues. The campaign also noted that the Iowa Legislature operates with a part-time structure, with sessions typically concluding before major campaign periods intensify.