DES MOINES, Iowa —

The Iowa State Fair isn’t just about fried food and farm animals. It’s also where political hopefuls get face time with thousands of voters from across the state. This year, many 2026 candidates are using it to test their message.

Iowa’s presidential caucuses have long brought national attention to the fairgrounds. In past years, presidential contenders flipped pork chops, gave fiery speeches at the Des Moines Register’s Political Soapbox, and posed for selfies with potential caucus-goers.

But with the next presidential election still three years away, the spotlight this year is shifting to statewide races in 2026.

Dozens of Iowans have already announced campaigns for the 2026 election — including races for governor, Congress, and key state offices. Political strateg

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