DES MOINES, Iowa — Iowa leaders from both parties are mourning the loss of a colleague. Family members said State Senator Claire Celsi, 59, passed away Monday after spending several weeks in hospice.

Celsi is remembered as a force of nature- someone who could cut through the nonsense and who was not afraid to speak her mind.

As a Democratic State Senator, she represented parts of Clive, West Des Moines, and Windsor Heights. First elected in 2018, she was serving her second term, although she missed much of the 2025 legislative session due to health issues. She entered hospice care in mid-September.

Representative Jennifer Konfrst told WHO 13’s Katie Kaplan that Celsi will be most remembered for her accessibility, as she was often seen meeting with constituents in the rotunda when other legislators would stay out of sight.

“Her heart was in the right place, and in a time when so many people treat politics like a game, it was really remarkable to see Senator Celsi, actually, as someone who truly cared about what we’re really there for, which is the important work of governing and representing your constituents,” said Konfrst, who represents Iowa House District 32.

Celsi continued to attend town hall meetings- even when she was not feeling well, said Senate Minority Leader Janice Weiner.

“What she was incredibly passionate about was public education funding,” she said. “And she did that for years. So I think that will be a piece of her legacy.”

Weiner said she and Celsi had been friends for years, and she plans to continue to fight for Celsi’s causes.

“The the package of nursing home bills has to be a part of her legacy,” said Weiner. “I will do everything that I possibly can to work with colleagues on both sides of the aisle this coming session to to get some of that passed so that we can finally take care of those ones who took care of us for so many years.”

As for Celsi’s now-vacant seat, the governor has five days to order a Special Election, which cannot be held for at least 40 days from that time.

Governor Kim Reynolds, who sat on the other side of the aisle from Celsi, also weighed in.

“Kevin and I are saddened to learn of the passing of Iowa State Senator Claire Celsi,” she wrote on social media. “Claire was an impassioned voice for Central Iowa constituents and advocated on their behalf for several years in the State House. Even while privately battling illness, Claire made it a point to return to her post during this year’s legislative session and stand for her beliefs. Our family is praying for Claire’s loved ones at this time.”

Celsi left behind her mother, husband, two daughters, and two grandchildren- one of whom was born just a few weeks ago.

Claire Celsi was 59 years old.