Spencer Waugh announces run for Iowa House District 21

INDIANOLA — Spencer Waugh officially announced that he will run for Iowa House District 21, which includes Indianola, Knoxville, Milo, Lacona, Sandyville and parts of rural Warren and Marion counties.

“As a teacher with 25 years of experience, both at Indianola High School and at Simpson College, I could no longer stand by and watch the legislature ignore the needs of our community schools. I believe in a representative democracy, and I promise to listen to the voters in Marion and Warren counties,” Waugh said.

Spencer has spent 25 years developing his policy expertise while coaching debate, growing debate teams, and leading the IHS team to two State Championships, and the Simpson team to six National Team Championships, most recently in 2023. He is currently a faculty member at Simpson College where he works with exploring students, helping them choose or change majors.

Spencer’s says his priority will be to focus on defending Iowa schools. He believes that the Area Education Agencies are a critical part of the infrastructure and says he wants them to remain strong and well-funded. He cited concerns about access to mental health care, especially for those living in rural areas. He looks forward to working across the aisle on both issues to deliver results for the constituents in Marion and Warren counties.

Spencer and his wife Sinikka Waugh will celebrate their 26th wedding anniversary this summer. They have long been active in the faith community in Indianola, and they attend Lutheran Church of Hope in West Des Moines.  Sinikka runs a small business in Indianola that helps people have better workdays. Their two daughters attend Simpson College.

A kick-off event will be held in Indianola on March 26 from 5-7 p.m. at West Hill Brewing Company, 219 W. Salem Ave. The event is open to the public. A similar open house in Knoxville will be announced for mid-April.

Voters can visit Waugh's website at spencerwaughforiowa.com.