DAVENPORT, IOWA (January 20, 2026) — Democratic candidate for Iowa Secretary of State and former Navy helicopter pilot Ryan Peterman officially filed his 2025 fundraising report today, boasting a record-breaking $200,000 total raised. This outpaces incumbent Secretary of State Paul Pate by nearly $140,000, after Pate reported raising just over $60,000. As the race enters 2026, Peterman holds a significant advantage in both total raised and cash on hand, fueled by broad grassroots support across Iowa.
This report highlights a stark contrast between the two campaigns:
- Over 900 individual contributions to Peterman, compared to just over 100 reported by Paul Pate;
- 75% of Peterman’s donations were $50 or less, while 86% of Pate’s were $50 or more; and
- Peterman’s most common contribution was just $10, Pate’s was $100.
“These numbers reflect a lot about our campaign,” Peterman said.
“I hear it everywhere I go — Iowans are supporting this effort because they want elections that are secure and accessible. They’re tired of career politicians, and they’re ready for a new generation of leadership that’s focused on truly serving the public. I am incredibly grateful for the support we’ve received, and I’m looking forward to building on this movement every day until Election Day.”
Peterman raised more in the year prior to the election than any previous Iowa Secretary of State Candidate.
Ryan Peterman is a former Naval Officer and lifelong public servant who is running to bring nonpartisan leadership to the Secretary of State’s office, and ensure that every eligible Iowan can vote freely and fairly. He is the only Democrat running for Secretary of State.
