Iowa Senate Race: Hinson vs. Turek Is One of 12 Key Battles for Senate Control

The 2026 midterm elections are set, and control of the U.S. Senate will hinge on a handful of fiercely competitive races across the country. For Iowa voters, the spotlight shines brightly on the open seat race between Republican Rep. Ashley Hinson and Democratic state Rep. Josh Turek, a contest that national analysts say could go either way.

Republicans currently hold a 53-seat majority in the Senate. Democrats need to net four seats in November to flip the chamber. With most of the 22 GOP-held seats up for grabs in states President Donald Trump won comfortably in 2024, the map initially favored Republicans. However, the unpopular war with Iran and persistent affordability concerns have made several Republican seats increasingly competitive, while Democrats are also playing defense in a few states.

Here is a breakdown of the 12 key Senate races to watch, with a special focus on the Iowa matchup.

Iowa: Josh Turek vs. Ashley Hinson

The race to replace retiring GOP Sen. Joni Ernst has become surprisingly competitive in a state that has shifted decisively to the right in recent years. Republicans quickly unified behind Hinson, 43, who has represented Iowa's 2nd Congressional District since 2021.

A former local news anchor, Hinson has secured President Trump's endorsement and has vowed to be his