Full Breakdown
Iowa and Florida Special Elections: Key Races and Dynamics
3/24/2026, 10:18:18 PM
Iowa Senate Primary: VoteVets Supports Josh Turek
In the lead-up to the Iowa Senate primary scheduled for June 2, 2026, the national Democratic group VoteVets has launched a significant television ad campaign supporting Josh Turek, a state legislator and former Paralympic gold medalist. The group is investing $825,000, marking the first outside spending in the race. This financial backing is notable given that it exceeds Turek's campaign funds of approximately $400,000 and surpasses his chief rival Zach Wahls' available funds of $733,480 at the end of 2025. Turek, who has faced numerous health challenges due to spina bifida, is viewed as the favored candidate of the Senate Democratic leadership, aiming to make the race competitive in the upcoming election.
Challenges to Iowa Candidates
On March 24, 2026, a state review board will convene to address challenges against five Iowa candidates who may be removed from the June primary ballot. The candidates facing scrutiny include State Rep. Eddie Andrews and State Sen. Mike Bousselot, both Republicans, as well as Democratic candidates Xavier Carrigan and Jared Gadson. The State Objection Panel, which includes Iowa Secretary of State Paul Pate, State Auditor Rob Sand, and Attorney General Brenna Bird, has the authority to disqualify candidates based on procedural errors in their nomination paperwork. Historical precedents indicate that such reviews can significantly impact candidate viability.
Florida House District 87: Emily Gregory vs. Jon Maples
In Florida, the special election for House District 87, which includes President Donald Trump's Mar-a-Lago estate, is heating up as Democrat Emily Gregory faces off against Republican Jon Maples. Gregory, a first-time candidate and small business owner, has garnered attention for her fundraising efforts, raising $213,928 in a recent reporting period, while Maples has received substantial support from the Republican Party, including $204,795 in in-kind contributions. The district has historically leaned Republican, but Gregory's campaign is capitalizing on recent Democratic gains in special elections.
Financial Dynamics in Florida's Race
The financial landscape of the Florida election has seen over $1 million in total contributions and support, with Gregory receiving significant backing from the Florida House Democratic Campaign Committee. In contrast, Maples has faced scrutiny regarding his residency in the district, which could influence voter perceptions. Both candidates won their respective primaries easily, setting the stage for a competitive race on March 24.
Criticism & Opposition
In Iowa, the challenges to candidates raise concerns about electoral fairness and procedural integrity. Critics argue that such challenges can disenfranchise voters and disrupt the democratic process. In Florida, Gregory's campaign emphasizes her local roots and commitment to the community, contrasting with Maples' perceived outsider status.
Official Statements & Responses
VoteVets has expressed confidence in Turek's ability to connect with voters, highlighting his resilience and life story in their ad campaign. Meanwhile, Gregory has focused on engaging all constituents in District 87, stating, "I am more focused on all 115,000 voters in District 87, not just the one," referring to Trump.
What's Next
As both Iowa and Florida approach their respective elections, the outcomes could have significant implications for party dynamics and control in the upcoming legislative sessions. The results will be closely monitored, particularly in the context of broader national trends in voter sentiment and party performance.
