A Republican candidate campaigning for Iowa’s 2nd Congressional District startled cyclists and local leaders after telling President Donald Trump that "we don't ride bicycles in Iowa" during a rally Thursday, comments that clashed with a long-standing state tradition and prompted swift criticism.
Backlash from cycling advocates and opponents
The remark by Joe Mitchell, a former Trump administration housing official, drew sharp responses from advocates who said it ignored the prominence of cycling in Iowa culture. The state is home to one of the nation’s best-known recreational events, the Register’s Annual Great Bicycle Ride Across Iowa, commonly known as RAGBRAI.
"I think the idea that Iowans don’t ride bicycles would just really surprise a lot of people here," said Rose Willey-Farver, board president of the Iowa Bicycle Coalition. Willey-Farver noted cycling’s place in the state’s identity and the long-standing tradition of community rides and bike advocacy across Iowa.
"I think the idea that Iowans don’t ride bicycles would just really surprise a lot of people here," said Rose Willey-Farver, board president of the Iowa Bicycle Coalition.
Mitchell later responded in a statement to The Washington Post saying, "Some people have lost their sense of humor." His remark came while he stood with Trump at a campaign rally, and it was presented as an off-the-cuff comment reflecting a casual exchange rather than a policy claim.
RAGBRAI’s profile and local economic impact
RAGBRAI, organized by the Des Moines Register, bills itself as the largest and longest-running citizen bike tour in the world. The weeklong west-to-east ride brings thousands of cyclists through communities across the state each summer and has become a signature event for Iowa.
The event is more than a sporting tradition; it also contributes to local economies. Organizers and economic studies estimate that RAGBRAI generates roughly $25 million in economic impact as participants and support crews buy lodging, food and supplies in host towns. The state’s cycling population is estimated at about 900,000, according to figures cited by cycling advocates.
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Estimated number of cyclists in Iowa | 900,000 |
| RAGBRAI economic impact | $25 million |
| Event organizer | Des Moines Register |
Political fallout in a competitive district
The exchange has entered the political fray in a race that election analysts consider competitive. The nonpartisan Cook Political Report lists the contest in the 2nd Congressional District as a toss-up, meaning both parties view the race as winnable and comments that touch local identity can have electoral consequences.
Mitchell is running to represent a district that includes significant stretches of eastern and northeastern Iowa; RAGBRAI’s route in July traversed part of that area. His Democratic opponent, state Rep. Lindsay James, seized on the moment to contrast local ties with his remarks. James posted on X, referencing Trump’s Florida estate: "I know you’ve been spending a lot of time at Mar-a-Lago recently Joe, but we’re pretty proud of our bikes here in Iowa."
Why the comment matters
Campaign gaffes and offhand comments frequently become fodder in tight races, particularly when they appear to misread or dismiss a state’s culture or economy. RAGBRAI’s visibility — both locally and nationally among cycling communities — makes it a symbolic touchstone for many Iowans who view cycling as part of the state’s recreational identity and a dependable source of tourism dollars for small towns.
- Mitchell framed his remark as humorous; critics called it out of touch.
- RAGBRAI remains a significant economic driver and cultural event for Iowa.
- The race for the 2nd District is rated a toss-up, increasing scrutiny of candidate statements.
As the campaign continues, local leaders and opponents are likely to highlight the exchange to shape perceptions of Mitchell’s connection to the district. Whether the comment will alter the dynamics of a closely watched House race remains to be seen, but for many Iowans it underscored how quickly a brief remark can become a political issue.
Grace Yun is a state correspondent covering regional politics and elections.
