West Des Moines, Here’s What You Need to Know Before Heading to the Polls Today

Tuesday is Primary Election Day, and voters in West Des Moines will help decide which candidates’ names will appear on the November general election ballot.

Here’s everything you need to know:

What races affect West Des Moines?
Several are on the ballot, but the only contested race is the Senate District 22 Republican primary, which includes the western part of the city. You’ll find extensive coverage of the race by entering “Senate District 22” in the search box or .

Who are the candidates in that race?
There are two candidates running for Iowa Senate District 22. Those candidates are Republican Sen. Pat Ward, who currently represents District 21, and challenger Jeff Mullen, pastor of the Waukee Point of Grace Church. Whoever wins will face Democrat Desmund Adams in November.

Do you think voters should be allowed to switch parties on election day? Tell us below in comments.

Are there contests in West Des Moines House races?
No. In House District 42, Republican Rep. Peter Cownie is unopposed. He will face Democrat Mike McRae, also unopposed, in November.

In House District 43, Republican Rep. Chris Hagenow is unopposed. He will face Democrat Susan Judkins in November. Judkins also is unopposed.

In House District 44, Democrat  Eric Brenneman is unopposed. So is Republican Rob Taylor.

Where do I vote?
To find your polling location in Polk County, click here. To find your polling place and a list of candidates seeking election in Dallas County, click here. Or, go to the Iowa Secretary of State’s website and type your ZIP Code in the search box. From there, you’ll be asked to enter your street address

Who else is on the ballot in Iowa?
The Secretary of State has a full list of candidates across the state, including candidates for Iowa’s four congressional districts.

Is it too late to register to vote?
No. Potential voters can register at their precinct the day of the election.
What do I need to bring to register?

To register at the polls tomorrow, voters will need to provide either photo identification with their current address or one of the following documents: a government issued check or document, a residential lease, property tax statement, utility bill, bank statement or a paycheck.

What are polling hours?
Polls across Iowa are open from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m.

How soon will a winner be known?
Results will start coming in as soon as the polls close. West Des Moines Patch will live blog the results, so bookmark our site and join the discussion on issues important in the different races you’re watching.