Paul D. Pate

Paul D. Pate is a candidate for Secretary of State Iowa Primary Election in 2026 in Statewide, Iowa.

Incumbent Secretary of State in Des Moines, IA

Also running: Ryan Peterman.

Paul Pate is running for re-election as Iowa Secretary of State. A nationally recognized small business leader, he is currently serving his third term and is guided by principles of service, participation, and integrity. His priorities include ensuring election safety and security, making it easy to vote but hard to cheat. Key achievements and policy positions include instituting online voter registration, implementing voter ID requirements, establishing a Safe at Home program for survivors of violence, making it easier for military members to vote, and enhancing election cybersecurity. He advocates for the importance of voting and states' responsibility in election administration.