Republican Ashley Hinson Wins GOP Senate Nomination in Iowa, Sets Stage for Key Midterm Battle
Republican Representative Ashley Hinson of Iowa secured the GOP Senate nomination to replace retiring Senator Joni Ernst. Hinson, a former TV news anchor serving her third term in Congress, defeated Jim Carlin in the primary, making the Iowa Senate seat a key target for Democrats in the upcoming midterm elections. Hinson received support from President Donald Trump, Senate Majority Leader John Thune, and the National Republican Senatorial Committee, positioning her as a rising star in the party.
Hinson expressed gratitude to Iowans for their support and vowed to prioritize affordability for families, challenge Big Pharma and Health Insurance, and combat corruption in Washington. Iowa, once a battleground state, has shifted right in recent years, with Republicans holding both Senate seats, all congressional districts, and most statewide offices. However, Democrats are energized for the midterms, facing a challenging political climate and high gas prices.
In the general election, Hinson will face state Rep. Josh Turek, a Paralympian who won the Democratic primary against state Sen. Zach Wahls. Turek, backed by Pete Buttigieg and tacitly supported by Sen. Chuck Schumer, defeated Wahls, who had the endorsement of Sen. Elizabeth Warren. Hinson aims to succeed Ernst, known for her "make 'em squeal" campaign ads during her successful Senate bid in 2014. Iowa's Senate race is poised to be a closely watched contest in the upcoming elections.