Election 2026 Iowa Senate

This combination of file photos shows Iowa State Sen. and candidate for the Democratic nomination for U.S. Senate Zach Wahls speaking in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, Sept, 11, 2025, left, and Iowa state Rep. Josh Turek speaking in Des Moines, Iowa, April 8, 2026, right.

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Iowa Democrats hoping to flip a US Senate seat are torn over which of 2 hopefuls has the best shot

Iowa Democrats hoping to flip a US Senate seat are torn over which of 2 hopefuls has the best shot

Iowa Democrats are deciding between Josh Turek and Zach Wahls in Tuesday's U.S. Senate primary. They want a candidate who can flip a Republican-held seat in November. Many Democrats remain undecided as to who fits the bill. Turek, a state representative, believes his story and focus on economic issues appeal to independents and moderate Republicans. Wahls, a state senator, emphasizes his willingness to challenge party leadership and attract working-class voters. The primary choice carries high stakes for Iowa’s Democratic voters who haven’t had many recent examples of successful statewide candidates to help guide their decision.