WASHINGTON — In a significant victory during Tuesday’s Democratic primary, Iowa state Representative Josh Turek emerged triumphant over progressive contender Zach Wahls in the race for an open Senate seat.
Turek, who gained recognition as a Paralympian in wheelchair basketball, has captured the support of the Democratic Party’s establishment. He is now set to challenge Republican Representative Ashley Hinson in the upcoming November elections.
Zach Wahls, known for his viral moment in 2011 when he opposed a state constitutional amendment against gay marriage, has been a vocal advocate for LGBTQ rights and critiqued economic disparities. His campaign energized the progressive wing of the party by addressing these issues.
Having previously served as a state senator and minority leader, Wahls had pledged to stand against Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) if elected, highlighting his commitment to challenging the status quo within the party.
The Iowa Senate primary highlighted the ongoing internal struggle within the Democratic Party between its moderate and progressive factions.
In contrast, Turek positioned himself as a unifying figure, emphasizing his focus on defeating Ashley Hinson and former President Donald Trump rather than opposing Schumer. He has also embraced a message of patriotism, aiming to resonate with voters across Iowa.
“I’m uniquely the American Dream. In no other country on Earth could someone who’s gone through the economic struggle and the health care situation I grew up in be ultimately able to accomplish what I’ve been able to accomplish,” Turek said, per KCRG.
Once considered something of a purple state, Democrats haven’t won a statewide election in Iowa since former President Barack Obama’s presidential reelection in 2012.
Democrats need to flip four seats to take control of the Senate. Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee Chair Kirsten Gillibrand has cited North Carolina, Maine, Ohio, and Alaska as their top four prospects.
But argued that four longer-shot prospects are: Texas, Iowa, Florida, and Mississippi.
Hinson easily defeated former state Sen. Jim Carlin in a primary. President Trump has endorsed Hinson to succeed retiring Sen. Joni Ernst (R-Iowa).
