Josh Turek Wins Iowa 2026 Senate Election, CBS News Projects, Flipping Seat for Democrats

Updated on: November 4, 2026 / 12:00 AM EST / CBS News

Josh Turek Wins Iowa 2026 Senate Election, CBS News Projects, Flipping Seat for Democrats

TL;DR

  • Democrat Josh Turek defeated Republican Ashley Hinson for the Iowa Senate seat.
  • Turek, a former Paralympian and state representative, ran on a platform of bipartisan work.
  • The race was more competitive than anticipated due to economic and foreign policy issues affecting Iowa.
  • Hinson, a former news anchor, had represented Iowa in the House since 2021.
  • Polls indicated a tight race, leading to heavy spending by both campaigns.
  • Iowa has not elected a Democrat to the Senate since 2008.
  • Turek's win contributes to Democrats achieving a projected Senate majority.
  • Democrat Rob Sand also won the Iowa governor's race.