Representative Ruth Gaines Contact information

Ruth Ann Gaines, born in 1947, is an American politician serving as a member of the Iowa House of Representatives, representing District 33. She officially assumed office on January 1, 2023.

Ruth Ann Gaines is a dedicated and accomplished teacher of drama, a mentor for youth and adults, an active community leader, and a single mother to a child with multiple disabilities. She has lived in Iowa her entire life, and has been a resident of district 65 for over 38 years.

Gaines was born in Des Moines, Iowa. In 1965, she graduated from St. Joseph Academy. She received a B.A. in drama/speech from Clarke College in 1969 and an M.A. in dramatic art from the University of California, Santa Barbara in 1970. Her career experience includes working as a professor with Des Moines Area Community College, an instructor with Heartland AEA, and a drama teacher with East High School.

Gaines has served on the advisory board of the Pyramid Theatre Company, the State Foster Care Review Board, and the Loras College Board of Regents. She is also the founder of Sisters for Success Des Moines Public Schools’ Mentorship Program.

Gaines is a member of the Iowa House of Representatives, representing District 33. She assumed office on January 1, 2023. Her current term ends on January 1, 2025. She ran for re-election to the Iowa House of Representatives to represent District 33 and won in the general election on November 8, 2022.

Throughout her political career, Gaines has served on several committees in the Iowa House: the Education, Public Safety, and Veterans Affairs committees. She also served as the ranking member of the Government Oversight committee. The auditorium at East High School in Des Moines was named after Gaines in recognition of her contributions.