Johnson County canvassing board certifies Iowa City District C primary; Messer, Wyland advance

The Johnson County Board of Supervisors, sitting as the county canvassing board, on Thursday certified the results of the Feb. 4 Iowa City District C special primary election, recording 936 total votes and advancing Ross Messer and Oliver Wyland to the March 4 special election, County Auditor Julie Persis said.

Julie Persis presented the canvass to the board and read precinct tallies from the county’s paper tally books. "936 total votes," Persis said. She reported Ross Messer with 248 votes, Oliver Wyland with 641 votes and Sharon DeRauch with 40 votes; there were four overvotes and three write-in votes. Persis said the county recorded zero provisional ballots for the contest and that precinct tally books were matched to signed records.

After the auditor’s presentation, Supervisor Sullivan moved to accept the canvass; Supervisor Green Douglas seconded the motion. The board voted unanimously to accept the results and certify them for the upcoming special election. The clerk recorded the motion as carried.

Persis also addressed online rumors about a runoff. "There were some rumors online that because Oliver received over 50% that there is no second election. That's not the way it works," she said, and noted the regular special election will be held Tuesday, March 4. Persis added that the March 4 ballot will be posted and that Swisher will be voting that day on separate matters not related to this District C contest.

The canvass occupied a brief portion of the supervisors’ meeting; the board recessed to other business following certification. The board noted its next regular meeting is scheduled for Feb. 12 at 9 a.m. in the same room.

Votes at a glance Motion to accept and certify the canvass of the Feb. 4, 2025 Iowa City District C special primary election — Moved by Supervisor Sullivan; seconded by Supervisor Green Douglas; outcome: approved (unanimous).