Democrat Lanon Baccam has been selected by Iowa Governor-elect Rob Sand to lead planning and coordination efforts for the upcoming gubernatorial inauguration.
According to an announcement from Sand, Baccam will serve as director of the Sand-Muhlbauer inauguration as Sand and Lieutenant Governor-elect Dave Muhlbauer prepare to take office in January 2027. Inaugural events are scheduled for January 15 through 17, 2027.
Baccam previously ran as the Democratic candidate for Iowa’s 3rd Congressional District in 2024, challenging Republican incumbent U.S. Representative Zach Nunn. Nunn won the election.
Baccam has also served in the U.S. Department of Agriculture during the administrations of Presidents Barack Obama and Joe Biden. During his time in federal service, he worked under former Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack.
A veteran, Baccam served as a combat engineer in Afghanistan. He is also the son of Tai Dam refugees.
In a statement announcing the appointment, Sand said Baccam’s experience in public service and ability to bring people together would contribute to planning an inauguration that represents Iowans.
Baccam said he considers the appointment an honor and looks forward to working with Sand and the incoming administration to coordinate the inaugural events.
The appointment is part of Sand’s ongoing preparations for taking office. Earlier announcements included the selection of Abe Rakov as chief of staff and the appointment of Elisabeth Buck and Morgan Miller as co-directors of the Sand Transition Committee.
The transition committee is also working with former Iowa Republican Party Chair Mike Mahaffey and State Representative Brian Lohse.
Sand and Muhlbauer are scheduled to take office in January 2027, succeeding Governor Kim Reynolds and the current administration.
