Summary
A new poll shows Republican Ashley Hinson leading slightly over Democratic candidates Josh Turek and Zach Wahls in Iowa’s 2026 Senate race to replace retiring Senator Joni Ernst. Democrats see a chance to win the seat as part of their effort to take control of the Senate, but Iowa remains competitive and leans Republican.
Key Facts
- Ashley Hinson, a Republican, holds a small lead over Democrats Josh Turek and Zach Wahls in a recent poll.
- The poll surveyed 1,200 likely Iowa voters in March 2026 and has a margin of error of ±2.8%.
- Democrats hope to flip Iowa’s Senate seat to gain a Senate majority, currently held 53-47 by Republicans.
- Iowa has shifted more Republican in recent years, voting for President Trump by large margins in his three elections.
- The poll found 50% of Iowans view President Trump unfavorably, and 45% view him favorably.
- Another January poll also showed Hinson with a small advantage over these Democrats.
- Political analysts classify the Iowa Senate race as likely leaning Republican.
- Iowa was a swing state in the 2000s but has become more Republican in recent elections.
