He represented the largely rural 8th district, covering Allamakee, Winneshiek, Chickasaw and Howard counties in the northeastern corner of the state.

Prior to his election to state office, he worked with various local government, Republican, and community organizations.

His father was the previous state senator from his district.

Zieman was re-elected in 2004 with 15,682 votes (55%), defeating Democratic opponent John Beard.

[2] He was an unsuccessful candidate in the Iowa Senate elections, 2008.