Mindy Smith-Pace has degrees in political science and public policy, and worked as a volunteer consultant for nonprofits. She's campaigning to represent Iowa's 93rd district, which includes part of Bettendorf, Pleasant Valley Township, Riverdale and LeClaire.
The Democratic candidate says she decided to run for office after hearing about cuts being made to the state's Area Education Agencies.
"I have three children with disabilities who are adults now and they would not have been successful without the services of AEA and the wonderful teachers of our school districts," she said. "So I am very concerned about what's happening."
Smith-Pace uses a wheelchair and takes care of her husband, who is a disabled veteran. If elected, she hopes to improve healthcare for people with disabilities and veterans, and better support caregivers.
She says, as a survivor of sexual assault, another one of her priorities is access to reproductive healthcare.
"Planned Parenthood was very important to me," she said. "One of the nurses there helped me get my voice back and I truly believe that women's health resources need to be available to all women."
Mohr, her opponent, has served in the Iowa house since 2017. He previously worked as a college administrator.
