Ako Abdul-Samad (34)

Ako Abdul-Samad is a Democratic former Iowa State Representative who represented District 34 from 2007 to 2025. Born July 25, 1951, in Des Moines, Iowa, he resides in Polk County and founded the Creative Visions Human Development Institute, focusing on employment assistance, health care, community development, and advocacy for at-risk youth. Notable achievements include receiving the National Caring Award in 2004, co-founding Iowa's first Black student union, and serving as an empowerment advocate. He announced his retirement prior to the end of his term.

Education and Political Experience

Education: Graduate of the National Conference of Black Lawyers Community College of Law and International Diplomacy.

Political Experience: Served nine terms in the Iowa House of Representatives, including his final term for District 34, which encompasses Drake University's campus. Elected to the Des Moines Public School Board in 2003, where he later became vice president. Member of the Legislative Black Caucus and Iowa Democratic Black Caucus; additional roles include vice president of KUCB Radio, founder and president of the African-American Islamic Association, and involvement in civil rights and economic development initiatives.