Democrats secured several major victories in Iowa’s November 3 election, winning the U.S. Senate race, three of the state’s four U.S. House seats, and the governor’s race, according to unofficial election results.
Josh Turek defeated Republican Ashley Hinson to win Iowa’s open U.S. Senate seat, marking the first time in 18 years that Iowans have elected a Democrat to the Senate.
Speaking to supporters in Des Moines, Turek described the victory as historic.
“Together, we have made history,” Turek said.
Unofficial results showed Turek leading Hinson by approximately 3.7 percentage points in one of the nation’s most expensive Senate races. Turek said he intends to represent all Iowans, regardless of political affiliation. He also addressed the ongoing war in Iran, saying he would work to bring the conflict to an end.
In the governor’s race, Democrat Rob Sand defeated Republican Zach Lahn, becoming the first Democrat elected governor of Iowa in 20 years.
During his election night remarks at the State Historical Museum, Sand thanked Republicans and independent voters who supported his campaign. He also acknowledged the challenges Iowa Democrats have faced in recent elections.
Sand said the election marked a return to balanced government and pledged to work with the Republican-led Legislature when lawmakers convene in January.
He also addressed voters who supported Lahn, saying he intends to represent all Iowans and remain accessible to residents throughout his four-year term.
Lahn thanked his supporters and described the election as the beginning of a broader political movement. He said he plans to remain involved and indicated he expects to see supporters again in four years.
Hinson, who was seeking to retain her U.S. Senate seat after serving three terms in the U.S. House, addressed supporters in Cedar Rapids following the results.
“The fight for common sense is far from over,” Hinson said.
Hinson is expected to return to Washington on Monday to continue her congressional duties, including votes on federal spending legislation.
In her remarks, Hinson acknowledged the campaign was over and emphasized the importance of moving forward.
“A campaign is behind us and the work of serving the people of Iowa remains ahead,” Hinson said. She also called for lawmakers to put politics aside and focus on issues affecting Iowa families and farmers.
The election results represent a significant shift in Iowa’s political landscape, with Democrats gaining several statewide and congressional victories. The results remain unofficial pending certification.
