Representative Ashley Hinson and State Representative Josh Turek faced off in their first televised Iowa Senate debate, clashing over the war with Iran, Medicaid cuts, taxes, and congressional stock trading. The debate, held in Johnston, Iowa, comes as the race tightens in a traditionally red state increasingly affected by shifting public opinion. Polls, including a recent New York Times/Siena survey, show a neck-and-neck contest that could determine Senate control.
Turek criticized Hinson’s votes against resolutions urging President Trump to end the war or seek congressional approval, citing his personal experience with the effects of war as someone born with spina bifida due to Agent Orange exposure. He linked the conflict to rising gas prices, stating, "Iowans out there, when you’re struggling at the pump, that is because of Ashley Hinson." Hinson maintained support for Trump’s goals while calling for an immediate end to the conflict, emphasizing that Iran must not obtain a nuclear weapon. The candidates also debated Trump’s policies, with Turek opposing tariffs and Medicaid cuts, calling them harmful to farmers and Iowans facing a cancer crisis.
Hinson defended the tax and budget bill, claiming its benefits for the middle class and praising accountability measures for health insurers. Both candidates emphasized bipartisanship: Turek highlighted his history of cross-party voting in the State House, while Hinson pointed to her work with former Speaker Nancy Pelosi, asserting she could work with anyone. Personal attacks surfaced, with Turek questioning Hinson’s increased net worth since taking office.
Hinson responded by noting she and her husband sold their stocks post-election and supported a ban on congressional stock trading, calling Turek’s claims "more liberal lies." The final debate is scheduled for Tuesday night.
Source: New York Times Top Stories · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing