DES MOINES, Iowa — Four Democrats are running in Tuesday's primary to secure the party's nomination for Iowa House District 34: Rob Johnson, John R. Campbell, Jr, Samy El-Baroudi and Dudley Muhammad.
First up is Rob Johnson. Johnson is known for being a local faith leader and community activist. He says if allowed to represent House District 34, he would focus on issues such as education, reproductive freedoms and mental health.
"When it comes to mental health, we have to figure out how to make sure that we address that issue so that we can continue to address things like economics, small businesses, community opportunities and other issues," Johnson said.
Next is John Campbell, a veteran and a community leader in Des Moines. Campbell shared if he wins the seat his main focuses will be on supporting public schools and protecting reproductive freedoms.
"This election, this candidacy, and this primary are all about choice: Choice of who your candidate is. Choice what women do with their bodies. Choice how you identify what gender you are, choice what communities decide to do for themselves," Campbell said.
The only educator in the group is Samy El-Baroudi. He hopes to use his experience to fight for education, affordable housing and reproductive rights.
"There are so many other issues, LGBTQ+ rights," El-Baroudi said. "We need LGBTQ+ teachers and teachers of color."
Last up is Dudley Muhammad, a Des Moines business owner and veteran. Muhammad hopes to focus on changing legislation surrounding mental health, a cause he deeply cares about, and he hopes his dedication will resonate with voters.
"My top three things are veterans affairs; I'm a veteran. so, in veterans affairs, I'm very passionate about. Education, I'm very passionate about," Muhammad said.
There is only one Republican is in the race and that's Danielle Duggan. As the sole Republican, Duggan will be up against whichever Democratic candidate secures enough votes to win the primary.