Iowa — 3rd District

Libertarian Marco Battaglia is ending his candidacy for Iowa's 3rd Congressional District following an unspecified medical emergency, the Libertarian Party of Iowa announced.

The Libertarian Party plans to hold a nominating convention on Sunday, Aug. 9, to replace him, according to a news release.

"Our thoughts are with Marco and his family as they focus on his health and recovery," Stephanie Berlin, chair of the Libertarian Party of Iowa, said in a statement. "Out of respect for Marco's privacy, we will not be sharing additional details. Right now, our focus is on supporting Marco while ensuring the party fulfills its responsibilities under Iowa law and continues to provide voters with a Libertarian choice on the ballot this November."

A Polk County judge ruled on July 29 that a state panel was correct to remove Battaglia's name from the Nov. 3 general election ballot for failing to run using his legal name, Mark T. Andersen.

Iowa law allows non-party political organizations, such as the Libertarian Party, to nominate candidates either by submitting nominating petitions with the signatures of eligible voters or by holding a nominating convention.

Battaglia had submitted nominating petitions to the Iowa Secretary of State's office before his eligibility was challenged and the State Objection Panel voted to remove his name.

Aug. 14 is the deadline for candidates for federal office to withdraw their candidacies. If Battaglia withdraws, the law allows the Libertarian Party to hold a convention to nominate a replacement.

The 3rd District, which includes Des Moines and central and southern Iowa, is expected to be highly competitive this year. Incumbent Republican U.S. Rep. Zach Nunn and Democratic state Sen. Sarah Trone Garriott will appear on the ballot.