Hinson Calls Out Democrat Opponent

Republican Rep. Ashley Hinson is taking aim at her Democratic opponent in Iowa’s closely watched U.S. Senate race, accusing state Rep. Josh Turek of attempting to portray himself as a moderate while supporting policies she believes are out of step with Iowa voters.

With the November 3 midterm elections approaching, Hinson is drawing attention to Turek’s legislative record, particularly on education, parental rights, and transgender-related policies.

During an appearance on Newsmax’s “American Agenda,” Hinson argued that Turek’s campaign messaging does not accurately reflect his political positions.

“He is a far-left liberal masquerading as a moderate,” Hinson said.

The Republican congresswoman believes Iowa voters deserve a clearer understanding of where both candidates stand before casting their ballots in a race that could help determine which party controls the U.S. Senate.

Hinson Questions Turek’s Political Record

Hinson has repeatedly challenged Turek’s effort to present himself as a common-sense candidate capable of working across party lines.

One of her central criticisms involves his positions on transgender-related issues and the role parents should play in decisions involving their children’s education.

Hinson argues that parents should remain directly involved in important school decisions and has accused her opponent of supporting policies that do not adequately reflect those concerns.

She has also questioned Turek’s broader legislative record, suggesting that his campaign has shifted toward the political center as the general election approaches.

Turek, however, has promoted his experience working with Republicans in the Iowa Legislature and maintains that he can represent voters regardless of political affiliation.

The disagreement highlights a central question in the campaign: whether voters see Turek as a moderate problem-solver or believe Hinson’s argument that his voting record tells a different story.

Iowa Senate Race Draws National Attention

The contest carries considerable importance for both political parties.

Hinson and Turek are competing to replace retiring Republican Sen. Joni Ernst, leaving an open seat that Democrats hope to capture as they seek control of the Senate.

Iowa has become a reliable Republican state in recent presidential elections. President Donald Trump carried the state by approximately 13 percentage points in 2024, and Republicans currently hold all four of its U.S. House seats.

However, the 2026 Senate contest has become unexpectedly competitive.

Turek has emphasized economic concerns affecting Iowa families, including rising costs for farmers, healthcare expenses, and household budgets.

Hinson has focused on her congressional experience, tax relief, support for agriculture, and policies she says would protect Iowa families and businesses.

Both candidates are attempting to appeal beyond their traditional party supporters, making independent voters particularly important in the closing days of the campaign.

Hinson Also Breaks With Trump On Russia

While Hinson has received President Trump’s endorsement, she has also demonstrated a willingness to disagree with the administration on certain policies.

During her Newsmax appearance, the congresswoman expressed opposition to Trump’s arrangement involving Russian diesel, raising concerns about easing economic pressure on Moscow.

Hinson has supported sanctions against Russia and maintains that American foreign policy should avoid strengthening the Russian government.

At the same time, she has stressed the need to address high diesel prices, an especially important concern for Iowa’s agricultural industry.

Farmers depend heavily on diesel for equipment, transportation, and harvesting operations. Higher fuel expenses can increase production costs and place additional financial pressure on rural communities.

Hinson has discussed potential measures such as temporary diesel tax relief and assistance for agricultural producers.

Her position reflects an effort to support Trump’s broader agenda while maintaining independence on issues she believes directly affect Iowa.

Voters Face Important Decision

As Election Day approaches, both candidates are making their final arguments to voters.

Hinson is asking Iowans to examine Turek’s legislative record rather than relying solely on his campaign promises. She contends that her opponent’s positions on education and other social issues are more liberal than his moderate campaign image suggests.

Turek is countering with a message centered on affordability, cooperation between political parties, and concerns about the direction of federal policies affecting Iowa families.

The outcome could have consequences well beyond Iowa.

Republicans are working to preserve their Senate majority, while Democrats see the open seat as an opportunity to make gains in a state that has increasingly supported GOP candidates.

For voters, the decision will involve competing visions of economic policy, parental involvement in education, government spending, and the state’s representation in Washington.

With only days remaining before the election, Hinson is making clear that she intends to keep challenging her Democratic opponent’s record.

Whether those criticisms persuade undecided voters could play an important role in deciding one of the country’s most closely watched Senate contests.