Patty Judge

Patty Judge

Patty Judge (born Patricia Jean Regan on November 2, 1943) is an American politician and former public official in the state of Iowa. Judge is a member of the Democratic Party and has served in various capacities throughout her career, including as the Lieutenant Governor of Iowa and the Iowa State Secretary of Agriculture.

Early Life and Education

Patty Judge was born in Fort Madison, Iowa, and grew up in a family involved in farming and small business. She pursued her education at Iowa Wesleyan University and later attended the University of Iowa, where she studied nursing. Judge's early career was in the health care sector, where she worked as a registered nurse.

Political Career

Judge's political career began in earnest when she was elected to the Iowa Senate in 1992, where she served until 1998. During her tenure in the state senate, Judge focused on issues related to agriculture, health care, and rural development.

Secretary of Agriculture

In 1998, Patty Judge was elected as the Iowa State Secretary of Agriculture, becoming the first woman to hold the position. Her tenure was marked by efforts to promote Iowa's agriculture industry, enhance farm income, and address environmental concerns related to farming. Judge served in this capacity until 2006.

Lieutenant Governor of Iowa

In 2006, Patty Judge was elected Lieutenant Governor of Iowa on a ticket with Chet Culver, who was elected as Governor. As Lieutenant Governor, Judge continued her work on agricultural and rural issues and was involved in various initiatives aimed at economic development and health care reform in the state. She served as Lieutenant Governor until 2011.

Later Career and Candidacy for U.S. Senate

After her tenure as Lieutenant Governor, Judge remained active in Iowa politics and civic life. In 2016, she ran for the United States Senate, challenging incumbent Senator Chuck Grassley. Despite a well-received campaign, Judge was not successful in unseating Grassley.

Personal Life

Patty Judge resides in Albia, Iowa, with her husband, John Judge. Together, they have three children. Beyond her political and professional life, Judge is known for her commitment to community service and involvement in various local organizations.

Legacy and Impact

Patty Judge's career in public service is noted for her trailblazing role as the first woman to serve as Iowa's Secretary of Agriculture and for her contributions to the state's agricultural policy, rural development, and health care reform. Her work has had a lasting impact on Iowa's political landscape and its agricultural and rural communities.