The Iowa Senate race between Ashley Hinson and Josh Turek is one of the most competitive this year. Both candidates are vying for the seat being vacated by Republican Senator Joni Ernst. With polls showing a close race, the two have been critical of each other’s voting records and attendance as they campaign.
Voting Record Criticism
Ashley Hinson, a Republican U.S. representative, has criticized Josh Turek, a Democrat and Iowa state representative, over his attendance. In September, Hinson claimed that Turek had skipped 58% of votes at the Iowa Statehouse during the legislative session. She emphasized these absences as a significant issue for voters.
“Josh Turek skipped 58% of the votes at the State House this year and had the audacity to say he doesn’t think that his absentee voting record matters to Iowans,” Hinson stated on social media.
Hinson further called Turek out for missing the vote on creating the MEGA program, which aims to support bringing a major steel plant to Iowa.
Turek’s Response
Turek’s campaign responded by highlighting his bipartisan efforts. They claim he voted with Republicans over 700 times to address costs, tax cuts, and safety measures. The campaign also claimed Hinson missed votes since her 2021 election, including important floor votes.
“Ashley Hinson…missed almost 200 votes, including to protect kids from AI child pornography,” Turek’s campaign stated.
Comparing Voting Records
According to a Politifact fact check, Turek missed 261 out of 445 votes in the Iowa legislature this year. His attendance in previous years had not been as deficient. On the other hand, Hinson reportedly missed 163 committee votes and 33 floor votes due to circumstances such as illness. These floor votes are crucial, as they decide legislation in Congress.
Polls Indicate a Tight Race
With the election approaching, recent polls show a close contest. A Rasmussen Reports poll shows Turek leading by four points, with 47% of likely voters supporting him over Hinson’s 43%. Other polls from Fox News and Quantus Insights present similar tight margins.
Recent Campaign Developments
The candidates continue to engage in heated exchanges. Hinson has promised to eliminate taxes on tips, overtime, and Social Security, accusing Turek of wanting to raise taxes. Turek, in turn, has criticized Hinson’s stock holdings, claiming conflicts of interest.
Significance of the Iowa Senate Race
The outcome of the Iowa Senate race could influence Senate control and reflect changing voter attitudes. A victory for Turek might suggest a shift in Iowa’s political landscape, traditionally favoring Republicans.