No candidates are elected in a primary election.  Instead, the state's two official parties (Democratic and Republican) choose their candidates for the November 4 general election.  Note that president does not appear on the primary ballot, as Iowa instead held its first in the nation caucuses on January 3.

Voters must be registered with a political party to vote in that party's primary.  However, you can change your party affiliation at any time, including Election Day.

Dates and deadlines:

• April 24: First day for early voting at Auditor's Office; overseas ballots mailed.
• May 24: This will be Iowa's first statewide election with same day voter registration.  However, voters registering after 5 p.m. Saturday, May 24 must use the election day registration procedure.  On May 24, the Auditor's Office will be open from 8 a.m. until 5 p.m. for voter registration, early voting, and other election business.  Register To Vote
• May 26: Auditor's Office closed for Memorial Day.
• May 30: Deadline to request absentee ballot by mail, 5 p.m.  In person early voting available until Monday, June 2.
• May 31: Auditor's Office open for early voting and election business, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
• June 2: Last day for early voting in person.  Satellite voting ends at 5 p.m.  Early voting continues at Auditor's Office until 6 p.m.

Satellite Voting Schedule

Hy-Vee Food Store
812 S 1st Ave, Iowa City, IA
Saturday, May 31, 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Iowa City Public Library
123 S. Linn St.
Saturday, May 31, 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.
Monday, June 2, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. 

University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics
Pappajohn Atrium, near elevator I
200 Hawkins Dr.
Monday, June 2, 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.