Libertarian candidate Marco Battaglia has dropped out of the race for Iowa’s 3rd Congressional District seat. The Libertarian Party of Iowa announced Battaglia had a medical emergency and is ending his campaign.
"Our thoughts are with Marco and his family as they focus on his health and recovery," said party chair Stephanie Berlin. "Out of respect for Marco's privacy, we will not be sharing additional details. Right now, our focus is on supporting Marco while ensuring the party fulfills its responsibilities under Iowa law and continues to provide voters with a Libertarian choice on the ballot this November."
Battaglia has been listed on Iowa ballots in previous elections, but this spring the State Objection Panel kicked him off the November ballot due to his nomination papers not matching his legal name, Mark T. Andersen. A judge upheld the panel’s decision on Friday, and Battaglia said he planned to appeal the judge’s decision.
Under Iowa law, political parties may hold conventions and replace candidates who withdraw by Aug. 14. The Libertarian Party of Iowa will hold a convention on Sunday to choose another 3rd District candidate.
Incumbent Republican U.S. Rep. Zach Nunn is seeking reelection and faces Democratic state Sen. Sarah Trone Garriott.
