The Des Moines Register: Linda Upmeyer will replace Kraig Paulsen and become the first female speaker of the Iowa House of Representatives. Paulsen, R-Hiawatha, announced earlier this month that he would step down as speaker at the start of the 2016 legislative session. He is not seeking re-election. The Republican caucus on Thursday chose Upmeyer as his replacement. Upmeyer, of Garner, said she is “honored” to take over as speaker and hopes she can inspire the next generation of leaders.