Iowa's Democratic party has been handed a crucial boost with Josh Turek's surprise victory in the primary election for the US Senate seat, pitting him against Republican Ashley Hinson in what is set to be a closely contested battle. Turek defeated Zach Wahls on 17 February 2026, cementing his place as the party's nominee and sending shockwaves through Iowa's political landscape.
Turek, who has served in the Iowa House of Representatives, will now face off against Hinson – a prominent figure in Iowa politics and former state representative with the backing of former President Donald Trump. Hinson's ties to the former president are likely to be a key factor in the general election campaign, which is set to take place in November 2026.
The US Senate seat at stake offers a six-year term, and both candidates will be vying for the support of voters in Iowa. The state has been a crucial battleground in recent years, with Democrats seeking to strengthen their presence in the region. Turek's victory is being seen as a major coup for the party, which hopes it will provide a significant boost to its chances in the general election.
Hinson's nomination has also highlighted the ongoing influence of former President Trump in Republican politics. The former president has backed several candidates in Iowa, including Hinson, in an effort to secure a strong Republican presence in the state. The move is likely to be seen as a test of the party's grassroots support and its ability to mobilise voters in key battleground states.