The latest ITR Foundation Poll reveals that Iowa voters continue to have broad-based support for taxpayer protections, particularly measures that would rein in property taxes.
Property Taxes Lead the Way
Nearly three-quarters of Iowa voters (72%) support instituting a two percent property tax limit, while only 12% oppose the idea. These numbers remain consistent with results from March. Property taxes are viewed as an important issue by Iowa voters, with 35% saying it is a top issue that will affect their vote.
Supermajority Amendment Garners Strong Backing
Similar levels of support exist for requiring a supermajority vote to raise taxes. Seventy-one percent of voters support this constitutional safeguard, with only 12% opposed. Support is strong across party lines, including 75% of Independents.
Flat Tax Amendment Gains Plurality Support
An amendment to the Iowa Constitution that would establish a single, uniform income tax rate, commonly referred to as a “flat tax,” receives plurality support. Forty-eight percent of voters back the proposal, while 22% oppose it.
TR President Chris Hagenow said, “Even in a political climate defined by division, tax reform stands out as a unifying issue. Such broad support for tax reform demands action from the legislature in 2026.”
Other Findings from the Poll
- Iowans have grown slightly more optimistic about the state’s direction, with 49% saying Iowa is on the right track and 43% on the wrong track. By contrast, optimism about the country’s direction has dipped, with 44% saying the right direction versus 48% wrong track.
- On the generic congressional ballot, Republicans now lead Democrats 49–39, an improvement from 47–39 in March. Independents have shifted toward Republicans (42–35) after favoring Democrats in March.
- “Threats to democracy” (22%) has overtaken inflation and the economy (17%) as the top issue for Iowa voters.
- Forty-three percent of voters support Education Savings Accounts (ESAs), compared to 31% who oppose.
- On trade policy, 40% believe tariffs will strengthen the economy, while 44% say they will weaken it.
Hagenow added, “This poll reinforces what we’ve known for years: tax relief isn’t just a Republican issue. It’s an Iowa issue. Democrats, Republicans, and independents alike believe government should live within its means.”
