Meet Cody Smith

A bold leader with a proven track record of creating meaningful change for Iowans.

Who is Cody?

Cody Smith is an environmental advocate, a policy expert, and a proud trailblazer–on track to become the only openly gay man serving in the Iowa House Democratic Caucus. He’s running because Iowa can’t wait for change. More than ever, Iowa needs bold, experienced leaders who know how to take on tough fights and win.

Born into a working-class farm family, Cody knows what it’s like to live paycheck to paycheck. He was a first-generation college student, graduating from Iowa State University, where he studied agricultural communications and political science, and made history as the first openly gay student body vice president.

Cody started his public service career during his studies, working part-time at the Iowa Department of Agriculture’s Water Quality Initiative while still in school. Since then, he’s built a career in environmental policy that has taken him across the Midwest and around the world, achieving real results to invest in clean water, climate resilience, and public health. He is currently the director of a climate resilience program at a statewide environmental nonprofit organization in Des Moines.

Here in Iowa, Cody has helped pass several laws to make Iowans’ lives better, including:

  • Expanding investments in solar energy

  • Protecting kids from drinking water contamination

  • Safeguarding students seeking help in emergency situations

  • Supporting small businesses during the pandemic

His policy work began in the Iowa Capitol and has spanned communities around the globe, including in Brazil, Panama, and the Cayman Islands. Cody has always centered people first, with a clear goal: build communities that are healthier, fairer, and better prepared for our rapidly changing future.

Cody earned his Master of Public Affairs in natural resources and climate policy from Indiana University, where he founded an organization that mentors other students on strategies to build resilient communities. His most important education, however, has come from the hardworking Iowans he’s served, including working families, small businesses, students, and immigrants, who remind him every day what’s at stake.

This campaign is about taking back our future. Cody is bringing fresh ideas, fearless leadership, and a deep commitment to service to the Iowa House. This fight will be a tough one, but Cody is prepared for this moment, and though the obstacles to building an Iowa we can be proud of are steep, he knows this is a fight worth having.

Working Class Roots

Cody was a first-generation college student who was the first in his family to earn a bachelor’s degree and a master’s degree. He knows what it’s like to live paycheck to paycheck.

Proven Track Record

Cody’s record is clear—despite the obstacles in his path, he finds a way to create meaningful & lasting change. From advancing solar energy to protecting college students and investing in small businesses, he’s ready to lead.

Trailblazer for Justice

From the start of his career, Cody has led with pride as an openly gay man. From the campus of Iowa State University to the Iowa House, Cody is no stranger to giving voice to those who need it most.