Josh Turek, a Democratic state representative and Paralympian, secured his party's nomination for the U.S. Senate in Iowa on Tuesday, defeating state Senator Zach Wahls in the primary. Turek will compete against Republican Representative Ashley Hinson, who won the GOP nomination. This Senate seat, previously held by retiring Republican Senator Joni Ernst, is a key target for Democrats in the upcoming midterm elections, which could influence the balance of power in the Senate.
Turek, known for his moderate stance, previously flipped a Republican-held Iowa House seat in 2022 and received support from former Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg. Wahls, a progressive candidate, was endorsed by Senator Elizabeth Warren. Hinson, a former TV news anchor, has the backing of notable figures including former President Donald Trump and Senate Majority Leader John Thune. Iowa has shifted politically in recent years, with Republicans currently holding both Senate seats and all congressional districts in the state. Despite this, Democrats are motivated heading into the midterms, especially after recent successes in state Senate races.