Josh Turek, Paralympian and Iowa State Representative, Runs for U.S. Senate

Josh Turek, a second-term representative in Iowa’s state legislature and a Paralympian, is campaigning for the U.S. Senate seat currently held by Republican Joni Ernst, who will not seek re-election. Turek, who has a background in wheelchair basketball and has faced numerous health challenges due to spina bifida, emphasizes his commitment to disability issues and economic populism in his campaign. He has garnered attention for his grassroots approach and has received endorsements from notable figures, including former Senator Tom Harkin and former Representative Tony Coelho. Turek's campaign is positioned against a backdrop of a competitive Democratic primary and a Republican-controlled state legislature, raising questions about his ability to push legislation if elected. Recent polling indicates Turek holds a significant lead in the primary race, but the general election remains uncertain.