Iowa Begins Early Voting for Open Governor and Senate Seats
Iowa voters began casting absentee ballots Wednesday for a general election featuring open-seat races for governor and U.S. Senate for the first time in 58 years.
In-person absentee voting began Wednesday, Oct. 14, across Iowa for the Nov. 3 general election. This cycle marks the first time in 58 years that open-seat races for both governor and U.S. Senate appear on the same ballot. Voters may cast ballots at county auditor offices, designated satellite locations, or via mail-in ballots. The ballot also includes four Congressional races, various state and local contests, and a constitutional amendment requiring a two-thirds majority of state lawmakers to approve increases to state and corporate income taxes.
Jamie Fitzgerald, the Polk County Auditor, announced the distribution of 21,000 requested absentee ballots and relocated the early voting site to a new office at 2309 Euclid Ave. In Linn and Johnson counties, officials have established various in-person and drive-up voting options available through Nov. 2. To participate, citizens must provide a valid ID, though same-day voter registration is available at the polls for those with proof of residence.
Religious leaders in Des Moines have urged citizens to overcome obstacles to participation. Bishop Betsey Monnot and Pastor Debbie Griffith characterized voting as a sacred duty and a celebration of democracy. Election officials emphasized the security of the process, noting that the paper-based system allows for the recreation of the election if necessary. The deadline to request an absentee ballot is Oct. 19, with all ballots due by 8 p.m. on Election Day.
