Iowa State Rep. Josh Turek has won the Democratic nomination for the state’s open U.S. Senate seat, according to projections from NBC News. Turek, 47, defeated state Sen. Zach Wahls in a combative primary, advancing to a general election that may prove highly competitive.
The General Election Matchup
Turek will face Republican Rep. Ashley Hinson in the general election. Hinson, 42, won the GOP primary with the endorsement of President Donald Trump.
Hinson has represented an eastern Iowa congressional district since 2021. During her victory celebration, she characterized Turek as a “liberal” who “has been masquerading as a good old Iowa moderate,” adding that she “will never back down from a fight.”
Candidate Backgrounds and Primary Dynamics
Turek is supported by former Senator Tom Harkin. His personal history is closely tied to military service; he was born with spina bifida, a condition attributed to his father’s exposure to Agent Orange while serving in Vietnam.
In his victory speech, Turek reached out to supporters of his former opponent, Zach Wahls. “Zach has been an exceptional representative for his district and a true public servant for the people of Iowa,” Turek said, while also calling on Wahls’ supporters to join the campaign to “push for change.”
The Democratic primary was marked by significant outside spending. The group VoteVets invested $10 million in advertising for Turek, accounting for nearly two-thirds of the total advertising dollars spent by Democratic groups during the primary. Both Turek and Wahls maintained individual campaign spends of approximately $1.5 million.
“She does not represent Iowa and does not represent our values,” Turek said regarding Hinson. “And tonight, Iowa, we have had enough.”
A High-Stakes Senate Battle
The seat is currently open following the decision by Republican Senator Joni Ernst not to seek re-election. Although Iowa has seen a series of Republican victories over the last decade, this race has emerged as a “sleeper” in the fight for partisan control of the Senate.
The Republican-aligned Senate Leadership Fund plans to spend $29 million on the battle. Iowa GOP Chair Jeff Kaufmann characterized the upcoming general election as “the battle for Iowa values.”
What to Watch For Next
As the campaign moves toward the general election, the contest between Turek and Hinson may become a central focal point for the battle over Senate control. The race could serve as a significant test of whether Turek’s personal narrative and the support of groups like VoteVets can overcome the state’s recent Republican trends.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who will Josh Turek face in the general election?
Turek will face Republican Representative Ashley Hinson.
Why is this U.S. Senate seat open?
The seat is open because Republican Senator Joni Ernst decided not to seek re-election.
How much does the Senate Leadership Fund plan to spend on this race?
The Republican-aligned Senate Leadership Fund plans to spend $29 million on the battle.
How will the level of outside spending impact the final outcome in Iowa?
