Voters in Iowa and Indiana Decide Key 2026 Races

Voters in Iowa and Indiana are participating in a series of high-stakes elections on November 2 and 4, 2026. In Iowa, the ballot includes a race for governor between Republican Zach Lahn and Democrat Rob Sand, as well as a tight U.S. Senate contest to succeed Joni Ernst, featuring Republican Ashley Hinson and Democrat Josh Turek. President Donald Trump campaigned for Hinson in Dubuque and Sioux City to mobilize the Republican base. To ensure oversight, the United States Department of Justice is deploying approximately 100 election monitors across the state.

In Indiana, Republicans are defending two-thirds supermajorities in both chambers of the General Assembly. The most closely watched race is for secretary of state, pitting Republican Max Engling against Democrat Beau Bayh. Other competitive contests include the U.S. House 5th District race between Republican Victoria Spartz and Democrat J.D. Ford. Todd Huston, the Indiana House Speaker, stated that the Republican team is focusing on internal campaign variables rather than national political trends.

Indiana voters are also deciding on constitutional amendments regarding judicial bail authority and judge residency requirements. Additionally, voters in Allen, DeKalb, and Steuben counties are voting on a proposed $500 million casino development in the Fort Wayne area.