DES MOINES, Iowa —

State Rep. Ruth Ann Gaines will not seek reelection after her current term ends in 2026. The Des Moines Democrat has represented House District 33 since 2010. Before entering politics, Gaines taught drama for 40 years at East High School.

Video above: East High School auditorium named after Ruth Ann Gaines

“It’s been an honor, privilege, and blessing to serve Des Moines and the constituents of House District 33,” Gaines said in a statement. “My constituents will remain close to my heart as time marches on.”

In the Legislature, Gaines was a founding member of the Iowa Legislative Black Caucus. She focused on education, diversity and disability rights.

“I want to say thank you to all who believed in me as I served the district that I love,” she said, adding that she l

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