Dubuque County Democrats are excited to welcome Mary Ungs-Sogaard as the Democratic candidate for Iowa Senate District 33.
A lifelong Iowan with deep roots in eastern Iowa, Mary brings decades of experience in journalism, small business development, nonprofit leadership, and community service to the race.
Born and raised in Luxemburg, Iowa, Mary grew up working in her family’s general store. Her father and grandfather both served as postmasters, and her family’s history in the community stretches back generations.
After graduating from the University of Iowa with degrees in Journalism, English, and Education, Mary worked in book publishing before returning to Iowa to raise her family. She spent more than 30 years working with her local newspaper, building a career focused on journalism, management, and small business development.
Mary has also been a leader in Iowa journalism and government transparency. She served as President of the Iowa Newspaper Association, was named a Master Editor-Publisher in 2012, and served on the Iowa Public Information Board, including two years as chairperson.
Her commitment to community extends far beyond her professional work. As a young mother seeking quality childcare, Mary helped launch The Kid Project, a nonprofit preschool and childcare center that has served local families for more than 35 years. She remains active in community organizations and currently serves on the Dyersville Area Community Foundation Board of Directors.
Mary’s campaign is focused on issues that affect families and communities every day, including:
1. Pocketbook Issues
Support for working families and individuals who drive the economy is essential to Ungs-Sogaard. As individuals and families face serious challenges in their living circumstances, Ungs-Sogaard will advocate for policies that promote quality of life issues such as cost-of-living initiatives and worker’s rights. Iowa has had a strong history of common-sense care for all its citizens; Ungs-Sogaard wants to restore that value at the state level.
2. Earth Care
Putting a band aid on environmental issues will not solve our problems, says Ungs-Sogaard. We have to find ways to actually fix what is so very negatively affecting our water, soil and air. It is important to our health and our future.
3. Health Care
Access to secure and quality healthcare is a fundamental right, Ungs-Sogaard believes. She will work to improve and expand healthcare services in District 33 for all ages, focusing on affordability, accessibility and quality of care.
4. Education
She will work to ensure adequate funding for schools, support for teachers and access to quality education for every child. She believes that public education is the basis of an educated citizenry, and that it deserves our appropriate support.
5. Civil and Human Rights
As a staunch advocate for equality, Ungs-Sogaard will fight to protect and advance civil and human rights for all residents of Iowa. She is committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse community that values and respects every individual.
“Having a deep commitment to small business, environmental issues, education, affordable housing, healthcare, and the protection of civil and human rights, I am excited to be a passionate advocate for the people of Iowa,” Mary said in announcing her campaign.
District 33 deserves leaders who understand our communities, listen to residents, and are committed to building a stronger future for Iowa. We look forward to sharing more about Mary, her campaign, and her vision for the district in the months ahead.
Looking Ahead
Mary is one of several Democrats stepping forward to serve our communities in 2026. Learn more about the candidates running for local and state offices and the issues that matter most to Dubuque County.