NewsWPLG Local 10 – Main FeedJuly 29, 2026United States
Former President Obama Endorses Josh Turek for Iowa U.S. Senate Seat
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.
Read the full story at WPLG Local 10 – Main FeedWhy 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.”personBarack Obama“Former U.S. President endorsing 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.”personJames Talarico“U.S. Senate candidate in Texas endorsed by Obama.”personDonald Trump“Former U.S. President who endorsed Ashley Hinson.”