Dates and Times for the Register's Political Soapbox Lineup at the 2026 Iowa State Fair

The Political Soapbox has long been a tradition at the Iowa State Fair, providing a platform for candidates to connect with voters in an informal setting. It is a place where politicians answer questions, debate issues, and share their visions for Iowa and the nation. The 2026 lineup promises to be especially engaging as we round the corner into the midterms.

Check out the schedule and tips for attending below.

Friday, Aug. 14 - Early Sessions

• 11:15 a.m.: Josh Turek, Democratic candidate for U.S. Senate

• Noon: Sarah Trone Garriott, Democratic candidate for Iowa's 3rd Congressional District

• 4:30 p.m.: Zach Lahn, Republican candidate for Iowa governor

Saturday, Aug. 15

• 10:30 a.m.: John Norwood, Democratic candidate for treasurer

• 11:15 a.m.: Rob Sand, Democratic candidate for Iowa governor

• Noon: Dave Dawson, Democratic candidate for Iowa's 4th Congressional District

• 1:30 p.m.: Thomas Laehn, Libertarian candidate for U.S. Senate

• 2:15 p.m.: Michael Bridgford, independent candidate for Iowa's 1st Congressional District

• 3 p.m.: Dave Bushaw, independent candidate for Iowa's 2nd Congressional District

• 3:45 p.m.: Rick Stewart, Libertarian candidate for Iowa's 2nd Congressional District

• 4:30 p.m.: Ryan Peterman, Democratic candidate for secretary of state

MAGA Monday, Aug. 17

Veteran's Day at the Iowa State Fair will also feature a large slate of Republican candidates on the Political Soapbox stage.

• 1:30 p.m.: Joe Mitchell, Republican candidate for Iowa's 2nd Congressional District

• 2:15 p.m.: Zach Nunn, Republican candidate for Iowa's 3rd Congressional District

• 4:30 p.m.: Paul Pate, Republican candidate for secretary of state

• 5 p.m.: Mike Naig, Republican candidate for secretary of agriculture*

• 5:20 p.m.: Brenna Bird, Republican candidate for attorney general*

• 5:40 p.m.: Ashley Hinson, Republican candidate for U.S. Senate*

Thursday, Aug. 20

• 3 p.m.: Lindsay James, Democratic candidate for Iowa's 2nd Congressional District

Friday, Aug. 21

• 1:30 p.m.: Nate Willems, Democratic candidate for attorney general

Saturday, Aug. 22

• Noon: Taylor Wettach, Democratic candidate for auditor

• 3 p.m.: Chris Jones, Democratic candidate for secretary of agriculture

Tips for Attending the Political Soapbox Events

• Arrive early to secure a good spot, especially for popular sessions like the governor’s debate or congressional candidate presentations.

• Bring a notebook to jot down key points or questions you might want to ask during open forums.

• Check the weather forecast and dress accordingly, as the soapbox is outdoors and subject to Iowa’s summer weather.

• Visit the Des Moines Register’s official website for updates on schedule changes

• Engage respectfully with candidates and other attendees to foster a positive environment for political discussion.

• Political signs and picketing are allowed only in designated areas, including the Des Moines Register Soapbox booth and respective party or candidate booths.