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Josh Turek Flips Iowa Senate Seat
Josh Turek, a Democratic Iowa state representative and Paralympian, has won the state’s US Senate race against Republican Ashley Hinson, according to projections by NBC News and Decision Desk HQ. His victory flips a closely contested seat and could help Democrats gain ground in the Senate.
Turek campaigned as a moderate, focusing in part on the effects of Republican cuts to Medicaid under President Donald Trump. The candidates were nearly even in the final New York Times/Siena poll, at 48 per cent for Turek and 47 per cent for Hinson. Turek, who was born with spina bifida and has had 21 surgeries by age 12, was endorsed by former senator Tom Harkin and former president Barack Obama; Hinson had Trump’s backing.
In short
- Democrat Josh Turek is projected to win Iowa’s US Senate seat.
- He defeated Republican Ashley Hinson in a close race.
- Medicaid cuts and Trump’s endorsement featured in the campaign.
Steelman: both sides, in good faith
The strongest fair case each way — we don't pick a winner.
The case for
Supporters can argue that Turek’s victory reflects voters’ concern that Medicaid cuts could leave people with disabilities, low incomes or significant health needs without adequate care. A moderate candidate with a record in state government may offer a pragmatic check on federal policy while bringing Iowa’s priorities to the Senate.
The case against
Supporters of Hinson can argue that voters may reasonably prioritise limiting federal spending and preserving a smaller role for Washington, even when that means tighter Medicaid eligibility or funding. They may also see her alignment with Trump as a mandate to advance the administration’s broader agenda, and view a closely contested result as no repudiation of those priorities.
Explained simply
Iowa is one of the states that elects a US senator, who represents the state in the federal legislature in Washington. The Senate shares responsibility for passing laws and approving senior government appointments, and its balance of seats can affect how much influence each party has.
Josh Turek is a Democrat who serves in Iowa’s state legislature and has competed as a Paralympian. His opponent, Ashley Hinson, is a Republican member of the US House of Representatives. The race drew national attention because Iowa has become competitive between the parties, and the candidates had backing from prominent figures in their parties.