It’s primary season! Early and absentee voting has already begun. In person voting will be held on June 2. A lot of voters overlook primary elections but there’s a lot at stake this year! Here’s what you need to know!
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Iowa governor
For the first time since 2010, we’re looking at a Republican gubernatorial primary where the incumbent is not on the ballot. This has created a wide open field with several candidates running to represent the GOP in the November election and keep Terrace Hill under Republican control.
The Republican candidates for governor are Eddie Andrews, Randy Feenstra, Zach Lahn, Brad Sherman, and Adam Steen.
Each candidate has made the case that they are best suited to defeat Rob Sand, the likely Democrat nominee.
The office of Iowa’s highest executive is on the line. It’s essential that Iowans make their choice clear.
U.S. Senate
Current U.S. senator Joni Ernst has decided not to seek reelection. This leaves an open primary on the Republican side.
Former state senator Jim Carlin is running against current U.S. Representative Ashley Hinson in the GOP primary.
Democrats are hoping to flip the seat to blue. On their side, state representative Josh Turek and state senator Zach Wahls are facing off for their party’s nomination.
U.S. House
Iowa’s First Congressional District, which includes Warren County, is the most hotly contested U.S. House district in the state. With Johnson County pulling the district left, it’s a difficult place for Republicans to win. In 2022 and 2024, incumbent Republican Mariannette Miller-Meeks barely defeated two-time Democrat challenger Christina Bohannan.
This year businessman David Pautsch is running in the primary against Miller-Meeks. He presents himself as a more conservative alternative to the incumbent.
On the Democrat side, Christina Bohannan is making a third attempt to win the seat. She faces Travis Terrell in the Democrat primary.
Iowa Senate
This is an open seat for Iowa Senate District 11, which includes Warren County. Three Republicans, Mandee Shivers, Jon Thorup, and Hollie Zajicek are running.
On the Democratic side, the only declared candidate is Sinikka Waugh, whose husband Spencer is running for Iowa House District 21.
Conclusion
There are a lot of important races on the ballot. Though a lot of voters skip the primaries, these races can have a direct impact on your life and community.
Early voting has already begun. The primary will be held on June 2, 2026. The general election will be held on November 3, 2026. Please make plans to vote!
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