DES MOINES, Iowa- The Iowa Democratic Party is facing a greater disadvantage this legislative session as voters across the state largely favored Republican candidates.

With the session set to begin on Monday, the Republican party is returning to the Capitol with a greater majority than they had during last year’s session.

Of the 48 decided seats in the Iowa Senate, the GOP gained two, bringing their total to 32. The Democrats have 16. Two seats are still being decided within this chamber, including that of the new Iowa Lieutenant Governor Chris Cournoyer.

Of the 100 seats in the Iowa House of Representatives, the GOP has 64 compared to the Democrats’ 36. There was a four seat increase for the Republicans in this chamber.

House Minority Leader Jennifer Konfrst met with WHO 13 News ahead of the Iowa Capital Press Association’s annual forum, which was held on Thursday. During the interview, she shared her thoughts on the Republican majority heading into session.

“We don’t like that they have a bigger majority than when we started this election cycle. But, at the end of the day, it doesn’t take away from our resolve to fight to represent our constituents, to stand up, and hold them accountable for things that they’re doing that we think aren’t best for everyday Iowans,” she said.

She went on to say the Democrats are prioritizing working with the Republican Party to pass legislation that will positively impact Iowans.

“We’re not here to represent a party. We’re here to represent our constituents. And so, I strongly believe that we can get some things done with that mindset,” she said.

Konfrst also shared some of the legislative priorities for her party during this session. She said they’re hoping to fully fund public education, increase housing stock within the state, make childcare more affordable, and pass the hands-free driving bill, which has passed the Senate in previous years but continuously failed to advance in the House.

Republican leaders have declined their invitation to the Iowa Capital Press Association’s annual forum this year, as they have in previous years. Members of the GOP also have not yet responded to WHO 13 News’ request for an interview on the upcoming session.

GOP legislative priorities will likely be shared next week.