Changes are ahead for Iowa House District 5.
Current Rep. Zach Dieken says this term—which concludes at the end of 2026—will be his last, and Aurelia farmer Keith Glienke is stepping forward as a candidate to fill the seat.
Iowa House District 5 covers O’Brien and Osceola counties, half of Cherokee County, and four townships in Buena Vista County.
Dieken, first elected in 2022, just entered his fourth and final legislative session in Des Moines. During his time in office, Dieken says he has worked on every issue he campaigned for—from opposing the carbon capture pipeline, to expanding education freedom, defending Second Amendment rights, supporting families, reducing government size, cutting taxes, and advancing legislation to provide equal protection under the law for unborn children. He plans to introduce similar legislation again this session.
In announcing his decision, Dieken emphasized that he has stayed true to his Christian convictions and expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve northwest Iowa. He said public service should be guided by courage, humility, and principle, and thanked supporters for their encouragement, donations, and prayers throughout his time in office.
While he will step away from elected office, Dieken intends to continue lobbying at the Capitol on abortion issues. He encouraged Iowans to follow the “Iowa Abolitionists” Facebook page and noted the group’s first statewide conference will be held in Des Moines at the end of January.
He said his focus now will shift to his growing family and continued advocacy work, calling his years in the legislature the highest honor of his life.
With Dieken stepping aside, Glienke has announced his candidacy for the seat.
A Republican and lifelong resident of the district, Glienke farms grain and livestock alongside his family on their generational operation near Aurelia. He and his wife Marcy have three grown children and five grandchildren, all living locally.
Glienke has also been active in his church and community, serving on numerous boards and committees over the years. He says one of his main goals as a legislator would be to make Iowa more economically competitive compared to other states, attracting business and industry to strengthen local communities. Growing the district’s economy and population is one of his top priorities. He also lists property tax reform, quality education, public safety, and protecting the rights of the unborn among his key issues.
Glienke says he looks forward to meeting with residents of the district in the coming months to gather their ideas and input.
The primary election is scheduled for June 2.
