Josh Turek's Senate Campaign: A New Hope for Iowa Democrats

Josh Turek, a state representative and two-time gold medalist in wheelchair basketball, is running for Iowa's open U.S. Senate seat. This election marks a significant opportunity for Democrats, as both the governorship and the Senate seat are open for the first time since 1968, following the decisions of Republican incumbents Kim Reynolds and Joni Ernst not to seek re-election. Turek aims to capitalize on this unique political moment, especially given that Democrats have not won a Senate race in Iowa since 2008.

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Turek's campaign is heavily influenced by the economic struggles faced by Iowans, particularly in the agricultural sector. He criticizes the tariffs imposed during Donald Trump's presidency, which he argues have severely affected Iowa's soybean farmers by limiting exports to China. Turek highlights the rising input costs and the alarming rates of farm foreclosures and suicides in rural communities, stating, “When you go out in rural Iowa... these communities... they're really hurting.” He also criticizes Rep. Ashley Hinson, the Trump-endorsed candidate for Senate, for not voting to repeal these tariffs.

The Independent

Turek is currently in a competitive primary against Zach Wahls, another state senator with a strong progressive record. The primary has seen consolidation around Turek, with endorsements from former candidates like J.D. Scholten and Nathan Sage, who praised Turek for his relatable background. Turek emphasizes the need for "real" and "authentic" representation, contrasting himself with what he describes as "cookie-cutter Democrats."

Time Magazine

Turek's platform includes raising the minimum wage, eliminating subminimum wage labor for people with disabilities, and restoring cuts to Medicaid that jeopardize funding for rural hospitals. He argues that these issues resonate with the middle class and working families in Iowa. Turek's approach is rooted in "Prairie populism," reminiscent of former Senator Tom Harkin's advocacy for the disabled and working-class citizens.

The Independent

Despite the optimism surrounding Turek's candidacy, challenges remain. The Republican Party, led by Hinson, maintains a significant fundraising advantage, and Turek's campaign must overcome the historical trend of Republican dominance in Iowa. Recent polling indicates that Trump is losing favor among Iowa voters, which could impact Hinson's campaign. However, Turek acknowledges that winning the Senate seat will not be easy, stating, “Flipping this seat won’t be easy, but neither was winning gold medals.”

Time Magazine

As the primary approaches on June 2, Turek's campaign will continue to focus on connecting with voters through his personal story and addressing the pressing economic issues facing Iowa. The outcome of this race could significantly influence the Democratic Party's chances of regaining control of the Senate, making Iowa a critical battleground in the upcoming elections.

Time Magazine

• “This is the first time since 1968 we've got an open Senate seat with an open governor's race, and then we've got two open congressional seats, and so there's no power of incumbency,” — Josh Turek, State Representative

The Independent

• “I think we are going to be the center of the political universe here in 2026.” — Josh Turek, State Representative

Time Magazine

• “Flipping this seat won’t be easy, but neither was winning gold medals.” — Josh Turek, State Representative

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