Josh Turek Reveals He Voted for Three Republicans in Iowa

A Democratic candidate seeking a seat in the US Senate has disclosed voting for three Republican candidates in Iowa, highlighting a split-ticket approach as the state faces closely contested statewide elections. State Rep. Josh Turek made the disclosure Tuesday while campaigning against Republican Rep. Ashley Hinson for a Senate seat that could determine control of the chamber.

In remarks captured by local broadcaster KCRG-TV, Turek identified two of the Republican candidates he supported: Susan Miller for Pottawatamie County supervisor and Lea Voss for Pottawatamie County treasurer. He also confirmed voting for another Republican candidate without identifying that person.

Responding to a question about whether he voted exclusively for Democrats, Turek explained his choices and praised Miller's performance on the county board.

"Susan Miller I voted for, I think she does an excellent job on the county board for supervisors. Voss I voted for, I picked one other as well," said Turek in a video posted by KCRG-TV.

The disclosure comes as Turek seeks to present himself as a moderate candidate in the race to succeed outgoing Republican Sen. Joni Ernst. His campaign is part of an effort by Iowa Democrats to reclaim a Senate seat they have not won in nearly two decades.

Turek, a former Paralympic basketball player, faces Hinson in a competitive contest that could have significant implications for the balance of power in the Senate.

Split-ticket voting has also emerged as a possible feature of Iowa's broader election results. The practice allows voters to support candidates from different political parties in separate races, potentially producing victories for opposing parties in statewide contests.

According to an election probability analysis by Inside Elections, Iowa has a 35 percent chance of electing a senator and governor from different political parties.

Separate projections from Decision Desk HQ indicate that Hinson holds a narrow advantage in the Senate contest. Meanwhile, the Iowa governor's race is leaning toward Democratic candidate Rob Sand.