Even though State Representative Brad Sherman is one of the most radical, right wing members of the Iowa legislature, a Democrat would have a heart of stone if they couldn’t empathize with his situation when he announced he would not seek re-election in House District 91.
Sherman wrote, “My Daughter (age 41) died suddenly and unexpectedly at the beginning of the summer, leaving her husband and 4 children (ages 15 to 7). Carole’s father (from SE Missouri) also died a short time later. Both of these events seriously changed our schedules. Then, throw in hip replacement surgery (six weeks ago) for good measure, and that pretty much summarizes our Summer and Fall.” After this boatload of trouble, Sherman decided to move out of district to Algona to be closer to the four grandchildren.
Sherman endorsed Judd Lawler as his replacement when he announced he wouldn’t run in the 2024 election. This is an old political trick, used by both Democrats and Republicans, to stave off competition in a primary. When Sherman ran in 2022, there were six Republicans in the primary, so it may be needed to ensure he influences his replacement.
What do we know about Lawler? Not much. He has been employed by Evelaw since January 2023 as a legal writing coach according to his LinkedIn profile. Here’s a screenshot from the Evelaw website:
I would argue the legislature already has too many lawyers. What matters more is where Judd will land on policy. According to Sherman’s endorsement, “Judd is a man of faith and a life-long conservative. He has a very impressive resume, yet he is a humble man with a sincere desire to serve.” That tells us a little. Lawler established a website which can be found here. Take a look and judge for yourself and judge whom he will serve in the legislature.
Suffice it to say that without Brad Sherman the dynamic of the race for this seat has changed. Now Democrats need a candidate.
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