When we say we want Iowa Democrats to win up and down the ballot this year, we mean it.

Iowa Democrats have a real opportunity to correct the political trajectory in the 2026 midterm elections. Let’s break it down:

1. Wide open Governor’s race. Since Kim Reynolds isn’t seeking reelection, this race is up for grabs. The Cook Political Report upgraded Democrats’ chances by two ratings, so we have a real opportunity to elect a Democrat as our next governor, which would be a game-changer for us.
2. Competitive Senate race. Republican Senator Joni Ernst has failed Iowans repeatedly. She has been scrutinized for voting for Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, who keeps spilling our nation’s secrets. Lots of special interest money will undoubtedly be spent on this race, but Iowans are ready for a leader who will represent their values in Washington.
3. Four battleground House races. National Democrats are targeting three of our House districts to flip blue, and great Democratic candidates are running in all four districts. Iowa Democrats have outperformed by over 20 points in every special election so far this year, so it’s more than possible if we do the work to make it happen.

Let me be clear: helping Democrats win these top races isn’t going to happen overnight.

For the past several months, IDP has been communicating with Iowans by hosting town halls, sharing Iowans’ stories about how they’ve been affected by Republican policies, holding GOP legislators accountable in our messaging, empowering our county parties, and more.

And with summer right around the corner, we’re not slowing down. We have a lot of work to do with our county parties to make sure we really can help Democrats win up and down the ballot, and we’re going to need your support to help us cover our bases.

Will you chip in $25 today to fund the work the Iowa Democratic Party is doing on the ground? Our main priority is to see electoral success next November, and we can’t do it without you.

Together,
Rita

Rita Hart
Chair, Iowa Democratic Party