Today is Primary Election Day across Iowa. Voters in the Hawkeye State have the opportunity to shape the future of their state and country by selecting the Democratic and Republican nominees who will appear on the November 3, 2026, general election ballot. In a closed primary system, participants must choose a party ballot—Democratic or Republican—to cast their votes for candidates seeking nomination. 

Polls Open and Close Today

Polls across Iowa are open from 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. local time. If you are in line by 8:00 p.m., you will still be allowed to vote. Many counties also offered early in-person voting and absentee options leading up to today. Same-day registration is available at your polling place if you are eligible and not yet registered. 

To find your polling location, visit the Iowa Secretary of State’s website or contact your county auditor’s office. Bring a valid photo ID if required by your county’s procedures, and be prepared to declare your party affiliation for the primary.

Why Your Vote Is Important Today

Primaries often see lower turnout than general elections, but they are where the real decisions about party nominees are made. In Iowa, candidates generally need at least 35% of the vote to secure the nomination outright; otherwise, the process may move to a convention. Your participation directly influences who will compete in high-stakes races for Governor, U.S. Senate, U.S. House seats, state legislature, and local offices. 

Every vote counts in determining the direction of Iowa’s leadership on issues like agriculture, education, healthcare, taxes, energy policy, and economic development. Low primary turnout can amplify the influence of highly motivated voters, potentially leading to nominees who do not fully represent the broader electorate. By voting today, you help ensure that the candidates advancing to November better reflect community priorities.

Key implications of strong primary participation:

•  Stronger democratic accountability within parties.

•  More competitive general elections.

•  Greater legitimacy for eventual nominees.

•  Influence over down-ballot races that affect local schools, roads, and county services.

Even if your preferred candidate seems like a long shot, history shows that unexpected momentum in primaries can shift outcomes. Your single vote contributes to the total that decides viability, media coverage, and future political strategies.

Major Races and Front-Runners

Here are some of the most prominent contested races on today’s ballot:

Governor

•  Republican Primary: Multiple candidates are competing to succeed term-limited Gov. Kim Reynolds. Frontrunner Randy Feenstra (U.S. Congressman) has significant establishment support, including an endorsement from former President Trump, along with strong fundraising. Other notable contenders include Zach Lahn (farmer, gaining traction with some conservative groups), Eddie Andrews, Brad Sherman, and Adam Steen. 

•  Democratic Primary: Rob Sand (current State Auditor) is the leading candidate and expected to be the nominee.

The winner of the GOP primary will face Rob Sand in the fall.

U.S. Senate (Open Seat)

•  Republican Primary: Ashley Hinson (U.S. Representative) and Jim Carlin are vying for the nomination to replace retiring Sen. Joni Ernst. Hinson is widely viewed as the frontrunner. 

•  Democratic Primary: Josh Turek and Zach Wahls (both state legislators) are competing.

U.S. House of Representatives Several districts feature competitive primaries, including efforts by Democrats to challenge Republican incumbents in Districts 1, 2, and beyond. For example, in District 1, Republicans are choosing between incumbent Mariannette Miller-Meeks and challenger David Pautsch. 

Local and state legislative races will also appear on many ballots, determining candidates for the Iowa House, Senate, county offices, and more.

Practical Tips for Today

•  Confirm your polling place in advance to avoid delays.

•  Allow extra time if lines form, especially during morning or evening rushes.

•  Review your sample ballot online beforehand so you can vote efficiently.

•  If you need assistance (language, accessibility, or disability support), poll workers are available.

•  After voting, consider encouraging friends, family, and neighbors to do the same—civic engagement is contagious.

Iowa’s primary sets the stage for what is expected to be a consequential general election. Whether you care deeply about preserving Iowa’s agricultural heritage, improving infrastructure, addressing workforce needs, or tackling any number of other issues, today is your chance to have a direct say.

Your vote is your voice. Make it heard on this Primary Day, June 2, 2026. Polls close at 8:00 p.m.—don’t wait until it’s too late.

For the latest results and official information, check the Iowa Secretary of State’s election results page after polls close. Let’s uphold Iowa’s strong tradition of civic participation.