Christina Bohannan Misses Key Votes Amid Congressional Campaign

Former Democratic state Representative Christina Bohannan missed a significant number of votes in Iowa’s House during her final year as she campaigned for Congress, records show. In 2022, Bohannan was absent for 348 out of 773 floor votes, accounting for around 45% of all votes, despite emphasizing the need for leaders to be present.

Bohannan is a candidate for Congress in Iowa’s 1st Congressional District, a race classified as a “toss up” by the Cook Political Report. This district is crucial as Republicans try to maintain their tight majority in the House of Representatives. Some of the legislation she missed voting on included protections for sexual abuse victims, support for volunteer firefighters and first responders, as well as bills concerning Iowa’s dairy industry, agricultural programs, emergency services, and juvenile justice reform.

Liberal Leader Accused of Absenteeism

Emily Tuttle, a spokesperson for the National Republican Congressional Committee, commented on Bohannan’s absences, highlighting the inconsistency between her actions and her past statements about the importance of leadership presence. Tuttle stated, “Missing half your job while collecting your taxpayer-funded paycheck isn’t leadership worthy of a promotion. It’s the kind of performance that would get you fired anywhere else.”

Bohannan’s absence contrasts with her previous comments. On October 6, 2025, she shared on social media about the importance of leaders being present and interacting with voters. She stated her commitment to legislative work during the 2022 session, alongside her congressional campaign efforts.

Bohannan served one term from 2021 to 2023 before running for Congress. She challenges incumbent Representative Mariannette Miller-Meeks, R-Iowa, in the 1st Congressional District, having previously lost by around seven points in 2022 and a narrow margin after a recount in 2024.

Challenges in Campaign Messaging

During her state legislature tenure, Bohannan retained her legislative salary while campaigning. Iowa lawmakers earned $25,000 annually in 2022, with additional per diem provisions.

Bohannan has faced criticism for her remarks labeling Iowa as potentially “backwards” over diversity training limits, and concerns about transgender athlete restrictions. Her financial profile also attracted scrutiny, with real estate holdings including a Sarasota condo and an Iowa City home, raising questions about her middle-class advocate image.