From Paralympic Gold to the Senate: Josh Turek Throws His Hat into Iowa’s 2026 Race

Des Moines, Iowa — Tuesday, August 13, 2025 — Iowa’s political landscape shifted today as Joshua Turek, a decorated Paralympic gold medalist and sitting state representative, officially declared his candidacy for the United States Senate. The announcement sets the stage for what could become one of the most closely watched Democratic primaries in the Midwest.

A Historic Figure in Sports and Politics

Turek, 46, is widely known for his achievements in wheelchair basketball, representing the United States in four Paralympic Games and securing two gold medals and one bronze between 2004 and 2021. His journey from a small-town Iowa athlete to an international sports champion has been marked by resilience, discipline, and determination—qualities he has brought into his political career.

After retiring from professional sports, Turek transitioned into public service, winning a seat in the Iowa House of Representatives in 2022. In the legislature, he quickly gained a reputation for championing disability rights, expanding rural healthcare access, and advocating for workforce development programs.

The Announcement and Campaign Priorities

Standing before a crowd of supporters at a community center in Council Bluffs, Turek laid out his vision for Iowa’s future.

“Iowa deserves a Senator who listens, who understands the challenges of rural communities, and who will fight for working families every single day,” Turek said during his speech.

Key elements of his platform include:

• Strengthening Rural Economies: Investments in agriculture innovation, small business support, and infrastructure upgrades.

• Healthcare Reform: Expanding access to affordable healthcare, with an emphasis on telemedicine for rural residents.

• Education and Workforce Training: Increasing funding for public schools and vocational programs to prepare Iowans for emerging industries.

• Bipartisan Solutions: Turek pledged to work across the aisle, noting that “real progress comes when we find common ground.”

A Competitive Democratic Primary Field

Turek joins a Democratic field already featuring two prominent contenders:

• Former U.S. Representative Abby Finkenauer, known for her energetic grassroots campaigning and strong ties to organized labor.

• Des Moines business leader Mark Sanderson, who has positioned himself as a centrist with a focus on economic development.

Political analysts say Turek’s entry could reshape the race. His status as a Paralympic champion and disability rights advocate gives him a unique personal narrative that resonates with voters across party lines.

Iowa’s Political Stakes in 2026

The Senate seat, currently held by Republican incumbent Joni Ernst, is not up for re-election until November 2026. However, early campaigning is common in Iowa’s high-stakes political environment, where grassroots organizing and name recognition can make or break a candidate’s chances.

Iowa has leaned Republican in recent federal elections, but Democrats believe shifting demographics and growing voter turnout in urban centers could create a competitive Senate contest.

Reactions from Across the State

Political leaders, advocacy groups, and constituents have already weighed in on Turek’s announcement.

• Iowa Democratic Party Chair Rita Hart praised Turek as “a proven fighter on and off the court who understands the struggles of everyday Iowans.”

• Republican strategists dismissed his chances, citing Iowa’s conservative tilt in recent elections, but acknowledged his compelling personal story could energize certain voter blocs.

From Paralympic Podiums to the Senate Trail

Turek’s transition from athletics to politics mirrors a growing trend of public figures using their platforms to influence policy. His career as an athlete was defined by perseverance through injury and competition at the highest level. Now, he’s applying that same determination to the political arena.

As the campaign unfolds, Turek’s ability to translate his inspirational story into policy action will be a key test. With more than a year before the Democratic primary, his challenge will be to build statewide recognition beyond his sports fame and legislative district.