DES MOINES, Iowa — Des Moines Public Schools teacher Samy El-Baroudi made his Iowa House District 34 run official Friday.
The Egypt native moved to Iowa 35 years ago and has immersed himself in the state's education system as a longtime teacher, Des Moines Education Association treasurer and Iowa State Education Association union member.
El-Baroudi shared more information about his run on Friday, though he's been in the running since making the March 15 candidacy deadline.
A founding member of the Heart of Des Moines Democrats and NEA’s Arab-American Educators Caucus founder, El-Baroudi's campaign focuses on issues of education, minimum wage, decriminalizing marijuana and rebuilding Iowa's small communities.
"As a teacher, he wants to better our education system and help the kids within the system. As a father and husband, he will always fight for reproductive rights and the rights of women. As a citizen of the state, he wants to rebuild the middle class by supporting local businesses and raising the minimum wage," El-Baroudi's website reads.
El-Baroudi aims to replace Iowa Rep. Ako Abdul-Samad in the legislature following Abdul-Samad's retirement.
He joins a crowded race, with three other Democrats in the running to represent District 34: John Campbell, Rob Johnson and Dudley Muhammad. Republican Danielle Duggan is also aiming for the seat.
