Obama Endorses Paralympian Josh Turek for Iowa Senate Seat

Former President Barack Obama has endorsed Josh Turek, a Democratic candidate for the U.S. Senate in Iowa, in a video that features the two playing basketball. The endorsement comes as Turek, a state representative, seeks to unseat Republican U.S. Representative Ashley Hinson for the seat held by retiring two-term Senator Joni Ernst. This race is considered a key target for Democrats aiming to gain a majority in the Senate, despite Iowa's recent Republican leanings. President Donald Trump won Iowa by double digits in the last presidential election, and it has been over a decade since a Democrat represented the state in the Senate. However, Democrats believe they have a viable chance in the current election cycle.

Turek brings a unique background to the political arena, having competed in wheelchair basketball for the United States in four Paralympic Games. In the endorsement video, Obama and Turek engage in a game of "I-O-W-A," a variation of the basketball game "H-O-R-S-E." Obama references his 2008 Iowa caucus victory, which propelled him from a U.S. senator from Illinois to the Democratic presidential nomination, stating, "I know a little something about winning Iowa." He also recalled his positive experiences in Iowa during both the 2008 and 2012 general elections, describing a "magic about regular folks showing up."

Obama, known for his passion for basketball, has previously demonstrated his commitment to the sport. He had the White House tennis court modified for basketball use and installed a professional-grade court at his Presidential Center. He recently met with WNBA players, including Iowa native Caitlin Clark, at this court. In the video, Obama humorously admits that Turek "whooped" him on the court. He concludes the endorsement by urging Iowans to support Turek, saying, "Now the ball’s in your court, Iowa. Let’s make sure that we send Josh Turek to the United States Senate."

Obama has been actively supporting Democratic candidates in the current election cycle. In May, he joined U.S. Senate candidate James Talarico for an event in Texas. The endorsement of Turek underscores the Democratic Party's strategy to target competitive races in states that have recently favored Republicans. The outcome of this election will be significant for the balance of power in the U.S. Senate, with Democrats seeking to overcome historical voting patterns in Iowa. The race between Turek and Hinson, who has received an endorsement from Donald Trump, is expected to be closely watched.