Iowa State Senator Dead at 59
A longtime Iowa State Senator and founder of a Democratic organization in West Des Moines, IA has passed away. She's the third Iowa legislator to die this year, and her death has prompted the need for a special election in the immediate future.
This week, news broke that Iowa State Senator, Claire Celsi, died at the age of 59. Her death comes after what KCRG called "a months-long health challenge," which led to her entering hospice three weeks ago.
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Claire Celsi's Legacy in Iowa:
Celsi founded the West Des Moines Democrats, and throughout her tenure, campaigned for public education and care for the elderly. She was also the owner of a public relations firm, per KCRG.
Celsi left her health issues undisclosed, but they were serious enough that she missed nearly half of the previous legislative session. She was elected to office in 2018 and then re-elected in 2022 and 2024.
Governor Kim Reynolds praised Celsi for returning to the legislature as she dealt with her health issues.
Celsi is the Third Iowa Lawmaker to Pass Away This Year:
Celsi is the third Iowa legislator to pass away while in office this year:
- State Representative Martin Graber (Republican, Fort Madison) died of a heart attack in January
- State Senator Rocky De Witt (Republican, Lawton) died of pancreatic cancer in June
Celsi's Death Prompts a Special Election:
Governor Reynolds is now tasked with calling a special election for voters to elect someone to serve the remainder of Celsi's term, which runs through 2029. Read more about the death of Claire Celsi on KCRG's website.
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