As Iowa heads to the polls, the focus often lands on the partisan contests for governor, U.S. Senate, attorney general and other statewide offices. While those races are certainly important, the real impact on daily life often lies in the nonpartisan items at the bottom of the ballot.
Local judges and county officials
The ballot’s lower section lists dozens of positions that carry no party label. These include judges for District 5C, where voters will decide whether to retain nearly 90 sitting judges, as well as county officers who oversee public hospitals, conservation efforts and other essential community services. These roles directly affect how local courts operate, how health resources are allocated and how natural resources are protected.
Amendment One – a tax‑policy change
The final item, Amendment One, would amend the Iowa Constitution to require a two‑thirds supermajority in both the House and Senate before any individual or corporate income tax can be created or increased. A “no” vote would keep the current simple‑majority rule. This measure reflects a growing desire among many Iowans to ensure that tax increases receive broader legislative consensus, protecting families from unilateral fiscal decisions.
Why every line matters
Even though voting in every race is not mandatory, each choice can shape the community you live in. Judges influence the fairness of local courts, county officials manage services that affect health care and environmental stewardship, and the constitutional amendment could make it harder for future lawmakers to raise taxes that impact family budgets.
According to the Iowa Secretary of State’s canvass summary, the 2024 election saw roughly 1.2 million undervotes on the judicial ballot and constitutional amendments, with a total of about 1.3 million undervotes across 37 races. Those numbers underscore the importance of giving each section of the ballot thoughtful consideration.
Take action
When you receive your ballot, flip it over and review the backside carefully. Look for the names of judges, county officers and the wording of Amendment One. If you have questions, the Iowa Secretary of State’s website provides detailed information on each measure and candidate.
By voting thoughtfully on these nonpartisan items, Iowans can help preserve strong local institutions, protect family finances and ensure that community services continue to operate effectively.
Original reporting: KCCI Des Moines — read the source article.
