Eddie Andrews

Eddie Andrews is an American politician, entrepreneur, and minister currently serving as a member of the Iowa House of Representatives for the 43rd district. A member of the Republican Party, he has held this office since his election in 2020. In addition to his legislative duties, Andrews has a background in technology and community service, and he has been involved in various initiatives aimed at supporting youth and fostering entrepreneurship.

Early life and career

Eddie Andrews was born on May 31, 1966. He pursued higher education at the University of Iowa, where he earned a bachelor's degree in electrical and computer engineering. His academic journey continued as he began master's programs at the University of Massachusetts, Amherst, and Iowa State University. Andrews also completed ministerial training at the Purpose Institute and is currently pursuing a master's degree in biblical languages at Shiloh University.

In addition to his educational background, Andrews has built a career in the technology sector. His professional experience includes various roles that leverage his engineering expertise. Andrews is also known for his commitment to community service and youth mentorship. He founded a youth program called #mentoromics, which focuses on teaching coding skills to young people, particularly with the aim of fostering entrepreneurship in the fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). Furthermore, he established the Des Moines Spanish Conversation group two decades ago, promoting cultural exchange and language skills within the community.

Andrews has also been active in religious and community leadership. He co-pastored Iglesia Pentecostal del Nombre de Jesus for ten years and played a significant role in planting a Swahili congregation that serves the Eastern African community. His dedication to community service reflects a broader commitment to social issues and support for diverse populations.

Andrews resides in Johnston, Iowa, with his wife, Betty Andrews, who is his high school sweetheart. Betty serves as the director of the NAACP Chapter for Iowa and Nebraska. Together, they have raised two daughters and a niece, and they adopted a son who has since passed away. This personal background underscores Andrews' commitment to family and community.

Legislative service

Eddie Andrews was elected to the Iowa House of Representatives on November 3, 2020, defeating the incumbent Democrat Karin Derry. Since taking office, he has been actively involved in various legislative committees. He serves as the Chair of the International Relations Committee and is a member of the Health and Human Services Committee, Natural Resources Committee, Economic Growth and Technology Committee, House Veterans Affairs Committee, and the Commerce Committee. His leadership roles and committee memberships indicate a focus on a range of issues, from international relations to economic development.

During his time in the Iowa House, Andrews has introduced and supported several pieces of legislation. Notably, he sponsored a bill aimed at eliminating spousal-consent requirements for women seeking a hysterectomy, reflecting his commitment to women's health issues. Additionally, he has been involved in discussions surrounding policing legislation. Initially, Andrews voted against the "Back the Blue" bill, which aimed to provide protections for police officers and establish penalties for protest-related offenses. However, he later supported the amended version of the bill after it returned from the Senate, demonstrating a willingness to engage with evolving legislative discussions.

Andrews has also championed parental rights legislation, which sought to codify and protect the rights of parents. This bill received unanimous support in the House but did not advance to a vote in the Senate, highlighting the complexities and challenges of the legislative process.

Policy focus and district

As a member of the Iowa House, Eddie Andrews has articulated a policy focus that includes family safety, education, low taxes, and the creation of entrepreneur zones to support small businesses. He has emphasized mental health issues as a top priority, reflecting a growing awareness of the importance of mental health in public policy discussions.

Andrews represents the 43rd district, which encompasses parts of Iowa. His legislative efforts are informed by the needs and concerns of his constituents, as well as broader state and national issues. His involvement in various committees allows him to address a wide array of topics, from health care to economic growth, thereby positioning him as a multifaceted representative.

In June 2025, Andrews announced his candidacy for the Republican nomination in the 2026 Iowa gubernatorial election. This decision marks a significant step in his political career, indicating his ambition to take on a higher leadership role within the state. His campaign is expected to build on his legislative experience and community engagement, as he seeks to address the challenges facing Iowa.

Overall, Eddie Andrews' career reflects a blend of political service, community involvement, and a commitment to addressing key issues affecting his constituents. His background in technology and entrepreneurship, combined with his legislative experience, positions him as a significant figure in Iowa politics.