First term Iowa Senator Rocky De Witt is dead after a battle with cancer.
De Witt served Iowa Senate District 1 in Sioux City since 2023. The Republican worked for MidAmerican Energy for 22 years and served on the Woodbury County Board of Supervisors.
“Kevin and I are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of a dear colleague and friend, Senator Rocky De Witt'” Governor Kim Reynolds said. “Rocky made a profound impact in the state legislature, all while heroically battling cancer. Rocky was a dedicated husband and a loving father and grandfather. His family and friends remain in our prayers.”
“Rocky was a passionate defender of the rights of the individual….Iowans could count on Rocky to protect their life, liberties, and pursuit of happiness,” Senate Majority Leader Jack Whitver said. “Rocky and I developed an uncommon bond as we both journeyed through cancer diagnoses together. He was loved by everyone in our caucus, and he will be deeply missed by all of us.”
De Witt worked to pass a constitutional amendment requiring a supermajority to raise income taxes. That amendment will appear on the November 3, 2026 ballot.
“The two positions Rocky held were honors that he did not take for granted,” his nephew Kolby DeWitt said. “Rocky understood that he was a caretaker of the two seats that he was elected to, and that they ultimately belong to Iowans. I consider myself blessed to have been part of Rocky’s family, and my opportunity to walk with him through the difficulties and triumphs of public service,”
“I am privileged to have had the opportunity to serve with Senator De Witt,” Senate President Amy Sinclair said. “Despite his painful battle with cancer, he was selflessly devoted to our state serving his constituents until the end. His legacy of public service to Woodbury County and the State of Iowa will continue to inspire me.”
