Paralympian Josh Turek Wins Democratic Nomination for Iowa Senate, Aiming to Flip Seat
Josh Turek, a former U.S. men's wheelchair basketball player and four-time Paralympian, has secured the Democratic nomination for the Iowa Senate seat. Turek, who was born with spina bifida, has been a prominent figure in Iowa politics since winning a seat in the Iowa House of Representatives in 2022. His campaign has focused on issues such as healthcare access, a living wage, and affordable housing, appealing to both disaffected Republicans and independents. Turek's nomination comes as he aims to replace retiring Republican Senator Joni Ernst, in a race that has heightened tensions among Iowa Republicans. His campaign has received significant support, including over $10 million in outside spending from VoteVets, a Democratic-aligned PAC.