News : Bethany Hantz Announces Candidacy for Benton County Supervisor, District 2

Republican Candidate to Run in June 2, 2026 Primary

Bethany Hantz (Gates), a small business owner, former Vinton City Council member, and longtime community advocate, has announced her candidacy for Benton County Supervisor, District 2. She will appear on the Republican primary ballot on June 2, 2026.

A lifelong Iowan and Benton County resident for over 20 years, Hantz lives in Atkins with her husband, Matt, and four of their seven children. She operates a midwifery practice and homeschools her school-age daughters, reflecting her deep commitment to family, faith, and service.

"I'm running because Benton County deserves leadership that's transparent, responsive, and grounded in conservative values," said Hantz. "Our rural communities need a voice that will defend property rights, ensure responsible budgeting, and restore integrity to local government."

From 2021 to 2024, Hantz served on the Vinton City Council, where she gained experience with public budgeting, local services, and collaborative governance. Since 2012, she has also held leadership roles within the Benton County Republican Party, including secretary, co-chair, and chair, and served two terms on the Republican Party of Iowa's State Central Committee.

Hantz has been a strong advocate for improving maternity care access in rural Iowa, including Benton County, which is considered a maternal healthcare desert. Her work at the Iowa Capitol helped secure midwifery licensure legislation in 2023 and remove restrictive regulations on birth centers in 2025.

Her campaign priorities include:

• Restoring trust and accountability in local government

• Protecting private property rights and rural landowners

• Lowering taxes through fiscally responsible leadership

Hantz and her family are active in their local church. In her free time, she enjoys reading, running (she has completed five marathons), and playing board games with her kids.

"I believe in common-sense government that respects your values, your land, and your hard-earned dollars," said Hantz. "I'm ready to work hard for the people of Benton County and help lead us toward a stronger, more transparent future."

For more information, visit www.bethanyforsupervisor.com or follow the campaign on Facebook at www.facebook.com/BethanyforSupervisor.