Dubuque County Democrats

Local Democrats working together for strong schools, fair wages, affordable healthcare, and a future where every family in Dubuque County can thrive.

Let’s build Dubuque’s future together.

We recruit and support Democratic candidates for local office, connect neighbors with resources to vote, and keep our community engaged between elections. By raising funds, training volunteers, and organizing events, we make sure Democrats win – up and down the ballot. Together, we can build a more just and inclusive Dubuque County.

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Trump in Dubuque: Rally & Protest Updates

Donald Trump is scheduled to visit Dubuque on Sunday, November 1.

Local organizations (Indivisible Dubuque County, Dubuque Visibility Brigade, and others) are planning protests in response.

We’re keeping track of what’s happening and will share information about protest times, locations, and other important details as they’re announced.

How Should You Vote on Iowa Amendment 1?

What are Iowa organizations recommending?

The Dubuque County Democrats do not have an official position on Amendment 1. However, several trusted organizations are recommending a NO vote.

We’ve gathered their recommendations, explanations, and additional resources in one place so you can educate yourself before casting your ballot.

Help Protect the Vote: Become a Poll Watcher!

Democracy needs people like you!

The Iowa Democratic Party is recruiting volunteers to serve as poll watchers during early voting and on Election Day, November 3, 2026.

Poll watchers play an important role in keeping our elections fair and transparent. And you don’t need any previous experience to get involved! Training is provided, and the role is focused on observation, not confrontation.

Volunteers are needed ASAP!

Learn what poll watchers do, why they matter, and how you can help.

Early Voting Now Open

Are you as excited to vote as we are?

The Dubuque County Democrats strongly encourage voting early this year. Give yourself time to address any voting questions – and keep unexpected Election Day plans from getting in the way.

Our guide covers where and when to vote early in Dubuque County, important deadlines, and what to know before you go.

General Election Key Dates

The midterm election is on November 3, and every vote has the power to shape our schools, wages, and future. Local Democrats are working hard to make sure every voice is heard and every ballot is counted – because when Dubuque shows up, we create a blue wave from Dubuque to D.C.

Primary Election

  • Register by: May 18
  • Early Voting Begins: May 13
  • Absentee request deadline: May 13
  • Election Day: June 2

Key Election Dates

  • Aug. 25 – Oct. 19: Absentee ballot request window
  • Oct. 14-19: Elections Office mails absentee ballots out
  • Oct. 19: Voter registration deadline; you may still register on Election Day (Nov. 3)
  • Oct. 14 – Nov. 2: Early voting window
  • Nov. 3: Absentee ballot due; must be RECEIVED by 8:00 pm to be counted. Postmarks do NOT count.
  • Nov. 3: Election Day; Polls are open 7:00 am to 8:00 pm.

Your 2026 Dubuque County Voter Guide

Candidates for Iowa General Assembly and Dubuque County Offices. The image displays profiles of candidates for Iowa Senate and House, as well as County Attorney, County Recorder, and County Supervisor positions, with photos, names, and brief descriptions of their platforms.

Election Day is coming up. Get the information you need before you cast your ballot with our 2026 Dubuque County Voter Guide.

Download the guide for a convenient overview of the candidates, races, and voter information you’ll want to have at your fingertips.

Meet the 2026 Candidates

This November, voters across Dubuque County will elect leaders who will shape our schools, neighborhoods, and future.

Learn about the Democratic candidates running for local, county, state, and federal office—and discover why they’re stepping up to serve our community.

Request Yard Signs

We’re running low on yard signs, and some candidates’ signs are already gone. But don’t worry – there are still signs available for other candidates!

Fill out our request form to see which signs are still available. You can pick them up at our campaign headquarters (123 Main St., formerly Esther’s Lounge) or request delivery while supplies last.

Visit Our Campaign Headquarters

Need campaign signs, have a question, or just want to say hello?

Stop by campaign headquarters at 123 Main St. (formerly Esther’s Lounge).

Headquarters Hours

  • Sunday: 11:30 AM – 7:30 PM
  • Monday: 12:00 – 4:00 PM; 5:00 – 6:00 PM
  • Tuesday–Thursday: 10:30 AM – 8:30 PM
  • Friday: 10:30 AM – 7:30 PM
  • Saturday: 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM

We’d love to meet you!

We'll See You at the Dubuque County Fair

The Dubuque County Fair is July 28–August 2, 2026.

We’d love for you to stop by our booth, meet local Democrats, pick up campaign materials, and say hello to neighbors from across the county.

Hall of Fame Celebration 2026

Our biggest and most energizing nights in years!

On May 9, neighbors from across Dubuque County came together to celebrate local leaders, hear from inspiring voices, and invest in the future of our community — and thanks to supporters like you, the evening was a tremendous success!

We sold out the event, raised more money from grassroots supporter than we have in years, and filled the room with optimism, energy, and determination for what comes next.

Guests heard from incredible honorees and Democratic leaders, including special remarks from former Senator Tom Harkin.

Most of all, the night was a reminder that this movement is powered by people — people who care deeply about Dubuque County and believe in building a stronger future together.

Special School Election: September 8, 2026

Vote YES for Stronger Dubuque Schools

On September 8, Dubuque Community School District voters will decide the future of the Physical Plant & Equipment Levy (PPEL) — dedicated funding that helps our schools maintain and improve buildings, equipment, technology, and other essential infrastructure.

The Dubuque County Democrats encourage district voters to vote YES on PPEL.

Strong public schools depend on safe, functional places to learn. Voting YES helps give our district the resources to maintain our schools and invest in the facilities students and educators use every day.

One Open School Board Seat

Voters will also choose among three candidates for one open seat on the Dubuque Community School District Board of Education.

We encourage voters to learn about all three candidates, consider where they stand on the issues that matter to you, and make an informed choice.

Dubuque County Convention 2026

Saturday, March 21, 2026 | Keystone Area Education Agency

The Dubuque County Democratic Convention is where local Democrats come together to elect party leaders, adopt platform priorities, and choose delegates to represent our county at the district and state conventions.

If you participated in your precinct caucus or simply want to be part of the process – this is your next step.

All Democrats are welcome to attend. Whether you’re a first-time participant or a longtime volunteer, the convention is your opportunity to help shape the future of our party here at home.

Discover Our Latest Blog Posts

Donald Trump is scheduled to visit Dubuque, Iowa, on Sunday, November 1, 2026. Dubuque-area organizations are planning protests in response. Find out what’s known so far and how to get updates as protest and rally details are announced.
The Iowa Democratic Party is recruiting poll watchers across the state! Learn what poll watchers do, why they matter, and how to sign up for the 2026 election.
Amendment 1 is on the ballot in Iowa this November. Learn what the proposed constitutional amendment would change, what your vote means, and where to find more information.

Browse Events

October 2026

Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat Sun
1
  • Phonebank in Dubuque with Iowa Forward
2
  • Bundling Party in Dubuque
3
  • Dubuque Area CROP Hunger Walk
  • Door Knock for Local, County and State Candidates
  • Door Knock in Dubuque with Iowa Forward
  • Matt Robinson for Iowa Day of Action
  • Door Knock for Local, County and State Candidates
  • Dubuque Latinx Fiesta
4
  • DoorKnock in Dubuque with Iowa Forward
  • Door Knock for Local, County and State Candidates
  • Seasons of Creation
  • Bowl of Tears ritual
5
  • Neighbor to Neighbor Weekly Check-in Meetings
6
  • Door Knock in Dubuque with Iowa Forward
7
  • PhoneBank & DoorKnock with Iowa Forward
  • Dubuque County Candidates Meet and Greet
  • US Senate Debate Watch Party Josh Turek (D) vs Ashley Hinson (R)
8
  • Phonebank & DoorKnock in Dubuque with Iowa Forward
  • US Congress Debate Watch Party James (D) vs Mitchell (R)
9
  • Bundle, Phone Call or Door Knock in Dubuque
10
  • Door Knock for Local, County and State Candidates
  • DoorKnock in Dubuque with Iowa Forward
  • Lit Drop for Local, County and State Candidates
  • Door Knock for Local, County and State Candidates
11
  • Canvas Launch with Lindsay James
  • DoorKnock in Dubuque with Iowa Forward
  • Door Knock for Local, County and State Candidates
12
  • Neighbor to Neighbor Weekly Check-in Meetings
  • Door Knocking Training
13
  • Door Knock in Dubuque with Iowa Forward
  • Pre-Central Committee MiniVAN training
  • DBQ Central Committee Meeting
14
  • DoorKnock in Dubuque with Iowa Forward
  • Dubuque LWV County Candidate Forum
15
  • DoorKnock in Dubuque with Iowa Forward
16
  • DoorKnock in Dubuque with Iowa Forward
17
  • Door Knock for Local, County and State Candidates
  • DoorKnock in Dubuque with Iowa Forward
  • No Kings Vote Early
  • Canvas Launch with Josh Turek
  • Lit Drop for Local, County and State Candidates
18
  • DoorKnock in Dubuque with Iowa Forward
  • Lit Drop for Local, County and State Candidates
  • Door Knock for Local, County and State Candidates
19
  • Door Knock in Dubuque with Iowa Forward
  • Neighbor to Neighbor Weekly Check-in Meetings
20
  • Door Knock in Dubuque with Iowa Forward
21
  • DoorKnock in Dubuque with Iowa Forward
  • Dubuque LWV State Legislature Candidate Forum
22
  • DoorKnock in Dubuque with Iowa Forward
23
  • DoorKnock in Dubuque with Iowa Forward
  • Dubuque Branch NAACP Freedom Fund Banquet
24
  • Door Knock for Local, County and State Candidates
  • DoorKnock in Dubuque with Iowa Forward
  • Lit Drop for Local, County and State Candidates
  • Door Knock for Local, County and State Candidates
  • Canvas Launch with Rita Hart
25
  • DoorKnock in Dubuque with Iowa Forward
  • Lit Drop for Local, County and State Candidates
  • Door Knock for Local, County and State Candidates
  • GOTV Rally with Rob Sand
26
  • Door Knock in Dubuque with Iowa Forward
  • Neighbor to Neighbor Weekly Check-in Meetings
  • Josh Turek Dubuque Conversation: At The Buzzer Tour
27
  • Door Knock in Dubuque with Iowa Forward
28
  • DoorKnock in Dubuque with Iowa Forward
29
  • DoorKnock in Dubuque with Iowa Forward
30
  • DoorKnock in Dubuque with Iowa Forward
31
  • Canvas Launch with Chris Jones
  • Door Knock for Local, County and State Candidates
  • DoorKnock in Dubuque with Iowa Forward
  • Canvas Launch with John Norwood
  • Lit Drop for Local, County and State Candidates
  • Door Knock for Local, County and State Candidates

featured event

Labor Day Parade & Picnic

Monday, September 7, 2026 @ 9:30 am

Labor Day is an opportunity to celebrate the workers, unions, and working families who helped build Dubuque County and continue strengthening our communities every day.

Dubuque County Democrats are proud to stand alongside organized labor in supporting fair wages, safe workplaces, strong public services, and economic opportunity for all workers.

We’ll be walking in the Labor Day parade and we’d love for you to join us!

DUBUQUE COUNTY DEMOCRATS

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