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Hey John,

California’s elections may dominate the headlines today—but here’s what we’re watching: primary day in Iowa, where the stakes stretch far beyond the ballot.

For years, Democrats have written off Iowa. We refuse to. Shifting demographics mean it could be a real battleground by 2032. That’s why it’s so central to Run for Something’s Battle Up strategy: recruit and build now so we can win later.

To do that, we need a surge of monthly support—reliable, steady contributions that give us the resources needed to keep building, even in off-cycle years. Can you help, John?

GIVE NOW TO HELP BUILD.
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Here are five Run for Something candidates on the ballot today in Iowa who represent our bench-building strategy:

Heather Sievers (State House) is a nurse, a parent, and a fierce advocate for public education. After coming within just 320 votes of flipping this seat last cycle, she’s back to finish the job and protect the schools and services Iowa families depend on.

India May (State House) is a vocal advocate for working families, even confronting U.S. Senator Joni Ernst last year about cuts to Medicaid in a widely covered exchange. She’s focused on affordability, strong public schools, and ensuring everyday Iowans—not corporate interests—have a voice at the Statehouse.

Leila Staton (State House) is 22 years old. With deep roots in her community, she founded a local grassroots progressive advocacy group that seeks to inspire people to run, boost young voices, and give back locally. Now she’s running to make sure her district has someone who will actually listen and deliver.

Catelin Drey (State Senate) broke the GOP’s supermajority in the State Senate when she won a special election in August, winning by 11 points in a district Trump carried by 10 points. Now she’s running for reelection to defend public education and fundamental freedoms in a moment when both are under attack.

Adam Peters (State House) is focused on strengthening schools, supporting working families, and building a state where young people can afford to stay and thrive. He’s running to bring practical, community-centered leadership to the Iowa House.

And here’s the truth: By 2032, states like Iowa, Nebraska, and Utah could look very different politically. But that only happens if we invest in candidates like Heather, India, Leila, Catelin, and Adam now. It only happens if we recruit early. It only happens if we contest races others ignore.

In Iowa, we’ve been building that foundation for years. Case in point: One of our standout alumni, Zach Wahls, is now running for U.S. Senate. That’s our Battle Up strategy in action. If we want more paths to victory in the next decade, we have to plant the seeds today.

Will you help us do that, John?

Start a monthly gift now and help us build durable power in states that are coming into play.

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Or, make a one-time donation instead.

Momentum doesn’t happen by accident. It’s built cycle after cycle, race after race. And today, that bold work is taking shape in Iowa.

Thanks for your support.

Manny Espitia
Northern Regional Director
Run for Something

We change the system by changing who’s in it. That’s what Run Club is all about—a group of 2,500+ monthly donors who have helped young, progressive candidates win over 1,600 elections.

Join Run Club now by starting a monthly gift. You’ll get access to exclusive benefits while providing talented candidates with the training and resources needed to compete and win.

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