Josh Turek, a state lawmaker and Paralympic gold medalist, secured the Democratic nomination for U.S. Senate in Iowa. According to The Associated Press, he prevailed over a progressive opponent in a primary that highlighted internal party debates about establishment influence.

Turek defeated Zach Wahls, a fellow state legislator known for his 2011 speech defending his lesbian parents at the Iowa Capitol. Turek, who labels himself as a ‘prairie populist,’ presented himself as an experienced candidate capable of attracting independent and Republican voters in a state President Trump has carried three times.

At a debate last month, Turek highlighted his electoral success, saying, ‘I outperformed the top of the ticket by Trump by 50 percent, more than any other Democrat in the state.’ He emphasized his ability to win across party lines.

Turek will contend against Representative Ashley Hinson, who represents northwest Iowa, in the general election. The Senate Leadership Fund, a key Republican super PAC, has already allocated at least $29 million to her campaign, suggesting a potentially competitive race.

The Democratic Party is increasingly hopeful about its prospects in Iowa, despite Republican control of the entire congressional delegation, the governorship, and both state legislative chambers.