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Election Day! Here Are a Few Things to Know About Voting in Iowa

Michael Leland/IPR
Early voting last month at the ISU Memorial Union

The polls are open from 7 a.m. through 9 p.m..

What’s being decided? 

Besides the presidential race, Iowans are voting for U.S. Senator, all four congressional seats, the 25 even-numbered Iowa Senate district seats, and all 100 seats in the Iowa House.  Also, three seats on the Iowa Supreme Court and four seats on the Iowa Court of Appeals are up for retention elections. And, there are many local judicial retention elections and other local races being decided.  For a sample ballot for your area, contact your county auditor’s website.

Where do I vote?

You can find your precinct and polling place here.

Am I registered?

You can find that out here.

Can I register today?

Yes, if you go to the correct polling place for your address.  This pagetells you what you’ll need to bring, including a photo ID.

I voted early.  Can I track my ballot?

Yes, by clicking here.  Some counties began processing early votes yesterday, and they’ll be tabulated with everyone else’s ballots tonight.

Can I wear a campaign button or shirt while I vote?

Yes, but you have to leave the polling place as soon as you are done voting. The Secretary of State’s office says remaining in a polling place while wearing political items is considered electioneering, which is illegal.

Can I take a selfie with my ballot?

No.  Iowa doesn’t permit the use of electronic devices like cell phones or cameras in voting booths.  Take one outside after you’ve slapped on that “I voted” sticker.

When do we find out who won?

Results will begin coming in after 9 p.m.  Some races will take longer than others to call.  You can follow the results on IPR’s News and Studio One stations, and at Iowapublicradio.org

Michael Leland is IPR's News Director