Jackie Norris, Chair of the Des Moines Public Schools (DMPS), has withdrawn from the race for a vacant Senate seat in Iowa following criticism regarding her support for Ian Andre Roberts, a former school superintendent and undocumented immigrant.
Norris, a Democrat and former chief of staff to Michelle Obama, stated that the ongoing situation surrounding the superintendent required her undivided attention, which she felt was under threat from what she described as a “coordinated attack.”
“These circumstances distracted me from my primary goal of advocating for the children, families, and educators who form the foundation of our communities,” Norris said in a statement.
Roberts, who led Iowa’s largest school district, has a troubled legal history and was living unlawfully in the U.S.
After being arrested on September 26th following a car chase, Roberts resigned on September 30th. Reports indicate that authorities discovered a gun, a hunting knife, and $3,000 cash in his vehicle, according to Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).
Federal records show that Roberts returned to the U.S. illegally from Guyana in 1999 after previous charges, and he was later convicted of reckless driving, among other offenses, in Maryland in 2012.
In 2020, he faced several weapon charges, and despite being issued multiple overstay visas along with deportation orders in 2004 and 2024, he remains an active voter registered as a Democrat in Maryland.
Roberts was also charged with being an illegal alien found in possession of a firearm.
The school board knew at the time of his hiring in July 2023 that Roberts had not graduated from Morgan State University, which he listed on his resume.
It remains uncertain if they were aware of his undocumented status or criminal background.
Norris’s opponent, Rep. Ashley Hinson (R-Iowa), has demanded her resignation and exit from the race, arguing that Norris fails to meet basic hiring standards in the school district.
In her campaign conclusion, Norris emphasized that the board is committed to leading with “grace, transparency, and determination.” She noted, “It’s clear that my focus needs to be on this role. I plan to guide the board through this period, support the Reimagine Education Bond, and be fully involved in the ongoing investigation for the sake of our community.” She added, excitedly, that she would continue serving her community and strive to help Democrats secure the Senate seat.
The school board has not responded to requests for comments.
Norris’s office declined to elaborate further.
