U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) will serve as the keynote speaker at a Des Moines-area political event this spring following a recently announced substitution.
The Iowa Faith & Freedom Coalition (IFFC) announced the decision for its 26th Annual Spring Kickoff on Monday. Cruz will present his keynote, “Constitutional Courage — “Cruzing” Toward Victory: A Roadmap for 2026.”
“We are honored to welcome Sen. Cruz,” said Steve Scheffler, president of the IFFC. “His leadership and constitutional convictions have inspired conservatives across the country, and we are excited to hear directly from him.”
Previously, Sen. Markwayne Mullin (R-Oklahoma) was going to be the primary speaker at the event, but he had to bow out after an appointment by President Donald Trump to lead the Department of Homeland Security.
“It is well deserved, and he will do a fantastic job,” the IFFC said when the decision happened, reassuring attendees that KC Crosbie, Co-Chair of the Republican National Committee, remained on the docket as a guest speaker.
The IFFC said it anticipates drawing over 700 attendees to what it called “one of the state’s premier gatherings for evangelical and conservative grassroots activists.”
The organization said the event will serve as a key organizing event ahead of the 2026 midterm election.
“The upcoming midterms will play a pivotal role in shaping Iowa’s future and the direction of our nation,” Scheffler said. “Our Spring Kickoff brings together leaders and activists who are committed to defending faith, family, and freedom.”
The event, which will take place at the Horizon Events Center in Clive (2100 N.W. 100th St.), is slated for Friday, May 1.
Doors open at 3:30 p.m., a dinner will be served at 5 p.m. and the program begins at 6 p.m.
Tickets to the event can be purchased by contacting Steve Scheffler at 515-971-7363 or slscheffler@ffciowa.com.