The Iowa Unity Coalition is pleased to announce our endorsement of Rob Barron for Des Moines City Council Ward 1 in the upcoming municipal election to be held on November 4, 2025.. The Iowa Unity Coalition is dedicated to building political power within our diverse and underrepresented communities at every level of government.

Rob Barron served eight years on the Des Moines School Board as an at large representative. He was the first Latino ever elected to a school board in Polk County. During that time, he served as chair and vice-chair. He worked for U.S. Senator Tom Harkin for 13 years and is also the former director of NextGen Climate. In 2015, he founded The Latino Political Network, a nonpartisan organization which serves to educate and empower Latinos to serve at all levels of elected office throughout Iowa. Rob is a graduate of Roosevelt High School and Grinnell College. Currently, he is the Executive Director of Seed Coalition and lives with his wife Angela Matsuoka and their 2 children in the Beaverdale neighborhood in Des Moines.

The Iowa Unity Coalition believes Rob Barron has the vision and drive to meet the needs of the citizens of Des Moines. Rob will work to improve the lives of everyday people. He will address the shortage of affordable housing and the plight of the homeless. Rob will prioritize affordable and accessible childcare and preschool as well as the availability of mental health resources. His previous work in the community has proven him to be a strong advocate for those who cannot always advocate for themselves.

For additional information, please contact Mitch Henry, Chair of the Iowa Unity Coalition, at (515) 865-4084 or mitchhenry1957@gmail.com.