Yes and No. In Iowa, you must be a member of a political party (currently: Republican, Democratic, and Libertarian) to vote in a primary election. However, anyone* can change parties on Election Day and vote. For independents to vote they must declare a political party.

*Precinct election officials may not change political parties within 30 days of an election.

Yes. You may request an absentee ballot via email or fax and a ballot will be mailed to you. However, in order for your ballot to be counted you must also mail in or drop off the original paper ballot request.