The votes have been counted, nominees have been chosen, and the next phase of the campaign begins.
Thank you to every voter, volunteer, candidate, poll worker, and community member who participated in Iowa’s 2026 primary election. Democracy is strongest when people show up, and once again, Dubuque County Democrats stepped up to make their voices heard.
As former U.S. Senator Tom Harkin said, “Change doesn’t come from the top, it comes from the grassroots and the bottom up.”
Primary Results at a Glance
Nearly 1 in 5 eligible voters participated in this year’s primary, with turnout increasing by more than 13% compared to the last comparable election cycle.
- 12,297 Ballots Counted (⬆️ 9% from 2022 primary)
- 18.0% Voter Turnout (⬆️ 13% from 2022 primary)
- Democratic nominees were selected for local, state, and federal races!
Meet the Democratic Team
This year’s Democratic ticket brings together leaders from across Iowa who are committed to strengthening public schools, supporting working families, protecting fundamental rights, and building stronger communities.
Federal Candidates
Josh Turek — U.S. Senate
Josh Turek is a two-time Paralympic gold medalist and state legislator who has built a reputation for hard work, perseverance, and common-sense leadership. After overcoming significant challenges throughout his life, Josh has spent years proving that Iowa communities are strongest when people come together to solve problems and look out for one another.
🔗 Visit Josh’s campaign website
Lindsay James — U.S. House (IA-02)
As a chaplain, state representative, and community leader, Lindsay James has dedicated her career to listening, serving, and standing up for Iowa families. Her work has been rooted in the belief that government should serve people—not powerful interests—and that every community deserves a voice.
🔗 Visit Lindsay’s campaign website
Statewide Candidates
Iowa Democrats have also nominated a strong statewide team:
- Rob Sand for Governor
- Ryan Peterman for Secretary of State
- Nate Willems for Attorney General
- John Norwood for Treasurer
- Chris Jones for Secretary of Agriculture
- Taylor Wettach for State Auditor
Together, these candidates bring experience in public service, law, agriculture, finance, government accountability, and community leadership. While their backgrounds differ, they share a common belief that government should work for everyday Iowans.
Dubuque Area Candidates
Here in Dubuque County, voters will also have the opportunity to support candidates running for the Iowa House, County Supervisor, County Attorney, and County Recorder—offices that directly affect everyday life in our communities.
- Carolyn Wiezorek, IA House District 65
- Michael Coonrad, IA House District 67
- Sam Wooden, IA House District 71
- Matt Robinson, IA House District 72
- Steve Drahozal, County Attorney
- Ann Sweeney, County Recorder
- Kristin Dietzel, County Supervisor
- Rick Dickinson, County Supervisor
From strengthening public schools and supporting workers to improving local services and expanding economic opportunity, these candidates are stepping forward because they care deeply about the future of Dubuque County.
Why This Election Matters
Local elections affect the issues people experience every day.
They shape our schools, roads, healthcare systems, housing policies, economic development efforts, public safety services, and quality of life.
The decisions made by elected officials in Des Moines, Dubuque, and Washington all have real impacts on families here at home.
That’s why elections matter—and why your participation matters.
Strong communities are built when neighbors stay informed, get involved, and work together to shape the future.
What Happens Next
Election Day is Tuesday, November 3, 2026.
Over the coming months, voters will meet candidates at community forums, neighborhood events, the county fair, and gatherings across Dubuque County. From downtown Dubuque to Peosta, Dyersville, Asbury, and communities throughout the county, volunteers will be having conversations about the future of Iowa and our local communities.
You’ll see candidates at local events, community forums, neighborhood gatherings, and doorsteps throughout the county. Volunteers will be making phone calls, knocking doors, writing postcards, and helping neighbors make plans to vote.
The months between now and November are when relationships are built, conversations happen, and campaigns grow. Let’s do this!
Key Election Dates
| October 14, 2026 | Early voting begins |
| October 19, 2026 | Voter registration deadline |
| October 19, 2026 | Absentee ballot request deadline |
| November 3, 2026 | ✨ General Election ✨ |
How You Can Help
Ready to get involved? From school board races to statewide campaigns, elections are won by people who care enough to get involved.
Whether you’re a longtime volunteer or considering getting involved for the first time, there’s a place for you on our team.
You can:
- Volunteer at an upcoming event
- Join a canvass or phone bank
- Participate in Neighbor-to-Neighbor outreach
- Attend a candidate forum
- Help register voters
- Stay informed and share information with friends and family