DAVENPORT, IOWA (January 5, 2026) — Democratic candidate for Iowa Secretary of State Ryan Peterman announced today raising over $200,000 in 2025 — already surpassing the total amount Sec of State Paul Pate raised during his entire 2022 campaign. Based on available campaign finance records, no previous Iowa Secretary of State candidate in history has raised more in the year before the election.
“I’m extremely proud of the grassroots support we’ve received from folks all across the state," said Ryan Peterman. “Iowans are ready for a new generation of leadership, and this record-breaking support shows there has never been a better opportunity to take back the Secretary of State’s office.”
The breakdown shows Peterman building a strong grassroots campaign:
- Over 900 individual contributions;
- 75% of all donations were $50 or less; and
- The most common contribution was just $10.
With polling consistently showing incumbent Iowa Republicans underwater, Democrats overperforming by an average of 22 points in legislative special elections across the state last year, and now this historic fundraising by Peterman — it’s clear that Sec of State Paul Pate is vulnerable.
As the campaign enters 2026, Peterman will continue traveling across Iowa to share a message that is resonating with voters statewide. Iowans deserve a Sec of State who will restore honor and integrity to the office, fight for secure and accessible elections, and revitalize our small-business services,” said Peterman.
Ryan Peterman is a former Naval Officer and lifelong public servant who is running to bring non-partisan 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 Iowa Secretary of State.
