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NewsWPLG Local 10 – Main FeedJuly 29, 2026United States

Former President Obama Endorses Josh Turek for Iowa U.S. Senate Seat

Photo: WPLG Local 10 – Main Feed

Former President Barack Obama has officially endorsed Iowa Democrat Josh Turek in his campaign for the U.S. Senate. The endorsement was featured in a video showing the two playing basketball, highlighting Turek's background as a Paralympic athlete.

ElectionsUs SenateIowaPolitical Endorsements
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Why It Matters

The endorsement impacts the competitive race for a U.S. Senate seat currently held by retiring Republican Joni Ernst, which is a key factor in the national balance of power in the Senate for the 2026 election cycle.

Key Facts

  • Barack Obama endorsed Josh Turek for the U.S. Senate seat representing Iowa.
  • The U.S. Senate seat is currently held by retiring Republican Senator Joni Ernst.
  • Josh Turek is a state representative and a former Paralympic wheelchair basketball player.
  • Josh Turek is running against Republican U.S. Representative Ashley Hinson.
  • Ashley Hinson has received an endorsement from former President Donald Trump.
  • The 2026 election cycle will determine the party majority in the U.S. Senate.
  • No Democrat has represented Iowa in the U.S. Senate for over a decade.
  • Barack Obama won Iowa in both the 2008 and 2012 general elections.

Who's Mentioned

PersonAshley Hinson“Republican U.S. Representative and opponent of Josh Turek.”PersonJosh Turek“Democratic candidate for U.S. Senate and current state representative.”PersonJoni Ernst“Retiring two-term Republican U.S. Senator.”PersonCaitlin Clark“WNBA player who met with Obama.”locationIowa“State where the Senate race is taking place.”PersonDonald Trump“Former U.S. President who endorsed Ashley Hinson.”PersonBarack Obama“Former U.S. President endorsing Josh Turek.”PersonJames Talarico“U.S. Senate candidate in Texas endorsed by Obama.”