Filing is now open for candidates seeking a political party’s nomination in the 2026 elections in Iowa. Those running for state and federal offices, including seats in the Iowa House of Representatives and Iowa Senate, must submit nomination papers to the Iowa Secretary of State’s office by 5 p.m. on March 13, 2026.
Candidates seeking election at the county level, such as Treasurer, Recorder, Attorney, or Supervisor, should file paperwork with their local county auditor by 5 p.m. on March 20, 2026. All candidates must provide the required signatures and forms to appear on the primary ballot. Signature requirements vary by office and county population.
The primary election is scheduled for June 2, 2026, when voters will choose their party’s nominees for the November general election. Iowa’s primaries are closed, meaning only voters registered with a political party can vote in that party’s contest. Voters may change or declare their party affiliation at any time before the primary, including at the polling place on election day.
Election officials encourage potential candidates to file early and remind voters to check with their county auditor for information on local offices and deadlines.
More information on Iowa’s Primary Elections can be found on the Iowa Secretary of State’s website here: https://sos.iowa.gov/primary-election
