Iowa Senate hopeful Josh Turek pitches generational change against Republican Ashley Hinson

A race framed as change

At a campaign stop in western Iowa, former Sen. Tom Harkin showed Turek a phone display putting the Democrat ahead of Hinson, 52% to 48%. Turek has described the contest as one of the country’s most competitive Senate races.

He is making the open seat part of a broader case for political change in a state that has moved right in recent years. Iowa could also see a Democratic governor elected and several House seats change hands, the report says.

Turek’s case for cooperation

Turek said he would work with others as he has in the Iowa legislature, adding that neither party owns good ideas. He cited agreement with President Trump on eliminating taxes on tips, overtime and Social Security, and on removing private equity from housing.

He said there are opportunities for agreement on several issues. Turek also pointed to health care cuts, tariffs and the war in Iran, saying they had affected Iowa.

Iowa concerns shape appeal

On the trail Monday, Turek listed concerns including a contracting economy, health care and cancer crises, water quality, public education, farmers facing foreclosure, tariffs and high energy prices. He said Iowans were hurting more than almost any other state.

Hinson’s message to voters

Hinson has presented herself as a fighter for Iowa, describing herself as a minivan-driving mother ready to get things done. Though she earlier pledged to be the president’s “top ally” and campaigned with Mr. Trump, she has recently promised to push back when needed. In an interview with CBS News, Hinson called herself an “Iowa common-sense conservative” who is “pro-Iowa ... no matter who's the president.”