3 candidates running for Iowa Senate District 17 in Des Moines

Three candidates are vying for Iowa Senate District 17, which represents areas north of the Des Moines River, including several Des Moines neighborhoods. Democrats Samy El-Baroudi and Grace Van Cleave will compete for their party's nomination, while Republican Ronald Langston is unopposed. El-Baroudi, a 62-year-old Des Moines Public Schools teacher, and Van Cleave, a 43-year-old fundraising consultant, are running against Langston, a 73-year-old retired individual with extensive political experience. The candidates' top issues include bipartisan leadership, adequately funding public schools, and eliminating the voucher program. Iowa's primary election is scheduled for June 2. The Des Moines Register has gathered information from the candidates on key issues, including education, taxes, and budget deficits.