Hinson and Turek to Face Off for Iowa US Senate Seat

Rep. Ashley Hinson (R-IA) and state Rep. Josh Turek (D-IA) will compete for a U.S. Senate seat in November 2026 [1, 2].

The matchup represents a high-stakes battle for an open seat in a key swing state following the decision by Sen. Joni Ernst not to seek re-election [3, 4].

Both candidates secured their party nominations during the primary election held on June 2, 2026 [2, 3]. Hinson has served as the representative for Iowa's northeastern congressional district since 2021 ^[1]. Her victory in the GOP primary ensures that the Republican party will maintain a candidate with established federal legislative experience in the general election ^[3].

Turek, a member of the Iowa state legislature, enters the race as a two-time Paralympic gold-medal winner ^[1]. His candidacy marks a significant attempt by Democrats to flip the seat by leveraging a candidate with a profile rooted in both state governance and international athletic achievement [1, 2].

The race was triggered when Sen. Joni Ernst announced her retirement [3, 4]. Because the seat is open, the contest lacks an incumbent, which often increases the volatility and spending of a campaign as both parties view the vacancy as a primary opportunity for gain [2, 4].

Campaigns for both Hinson and Turek are expected to focus on the specific needs of Iowa voters as they move toward the November general election [1, 2]. The candidates will now pivot from their primary bases to appeal to the broader electorate, a transition that typically involves shifting focus toward moderate and independent voters.