Election Schedule
- Senate Class 2 — Next election: 2026 UP IN 2026
- Governor — Next election: 2026 UP IN 2026
- 4 congressional districts — All up in every even-year election UP IN 2026
- Senate Class 3 — Next election: 2028 Not up until 2028
- Next presidential election: 2028 Not up until 2028
2026 Active Races
GovernorActiveNov 3, 2026
Governor
Lean R★ Flip Potential
Randy FeenstraRvsRob SandD
Iowa's open 2026 gubernatorial race is significant as the first without an incumbent since 2006—the last Democrat-won race. The state has trended sharply Republican in recent elections, but strong Democrat Rob Sand's fundraising and Iowa's economic struggles (ranked 49th nationally) create potential for a competitive race. Control of the governorship could impact education funding battles between public schools and private vouchers.
Last updated: Apr 10, 2026
U.S. SenateActiveNov 3, 2026
U.S. Senate
Likely R★ Flip Potential
Thomas LaehnLvsZach WahlsD41%vsJosh TurekD46%vsJim CarlinRvsAshley HinsonR48%
📊 Limited public polling available. Recent hypothetical matchup polls show Hinson leading both Wahls and Turek, with Hinson at 48% versus Wahls at 41%, and Hinson-Turek at 46-46 (tied). Prediction market odds favor Republicans at 61.5%.— Change Research, 2026-01-31
This open seat contest could be critical for Senate control. Republicans need to hold the seat given their narrow majority, while Democrats view this as a long-shot opportunity in a red state.
Last updated: Apr 6, 2026