Josh Turek and Ashley Hinson compete in tight Iowa Senate race

Democratic state Representative Josh Turek and Republican Representative Ashley Hinson are engaged in a highly competitive Senate race in Iowa. The contest is viewed as a critical battleground that could influence the balance of power in the U.S. Senate.

Turek is running a centrist campaign, identifying as a moderate on both social and cultural issues. He has criticized his own party for obstructing certain legislation and has emphasized his support for border security and bipartisan cooperation.

Hinson, a former television reporter, has received support from Senate Majority Leader John Thune as she seeks to replace retiring Republican Senator Joni Ernst. While Hinson initially aligned herself closely with Donald Trump, she has since sought to distance herself from him. Thune has emphasized the high stakes of the race, noting that Republican success in Iowa is vital to maintaining their Senate majority.