Democrat Drops Out Of Key Race

Iowa politics took an unexpected turn Monday when State Rep. J.D. Scholten (D) abruptly ended his U.S. Senate campaign and endorsed fellow Democrat Josh Turek in the race to take on Sen. Joni Ernst (R-Iowa) in 2026.

Scholten admitted the decision may come as a surprise but said it was “the right thing to do.” He praised Turek, a two-time Paralympic gold medalist, as the candidate best positioned to lead Democrats against Ernst.

“I want Joni Ernst to be held accountable,” Scholten said, while promoting liberal priorities such as government-run health care and breaking up private industry “monopolies.”

Turek quickly welcomed the endorsement, calling it a sign of “unity” within the Democratic Party. He promised to campaign on lowering costs, expanding government-backed health care, and reshaping housing policies.

But despite the Democrats’ enthusiasm, history is not on their side. Iowa has become a Republican stronghold in recent years. President Donald Trump carried the state by a decisive 13 points in 2020, and Sen. Ernst easily secured reelection that same year by 7 points.

Ernst, who is seeking a third term, remains a strong voice for conservative values and a reliable ally of President Trump. Her proven leadership on issues like border security, tax cuts, and support for America’s farmers continues to resonate with Iowa voters.

While Democrats scramble to rally behind a new face, Republicans are confident Ernst’s popularity, Trump’s influence, and Iowa’s red-state momentum will keep the Senate seat firmly in GOP hands.