Veterans Group Spends Over $8 Million to Back Candidate in Iowa Senate Primary
A political organization dedicated to electing Democratic veterans has spent more than $8 million on advertising to support state Rep. Joshua Turek in Iowa's Democratic Senate primary. The spending has created divisions in the primary between Turek, who is not a veteran, and a state senator viewed as more liberal. Democrats believe the seat could be competitive in the general election.
alternet.orgThe spending by VoteVets has created a contested primary between state Rep. Joshua Turek and a state senator seen as more liberal. Turek is not a veteran. The organization is backing Turek in the race. The primary has drawn attention because Democrats believe the seat could be competitive in the general election this year.
The influx of outside money has highlighted divisions within the party over the contest.
VoteVets has directed the funds toward advertisements aimed at boosting Turek's campaign. The scale of the spending is unusual for a primary race at this level. The effort has roiled the Democratic primary in the state. Party members are now navigating the contest between the two candidates with differing backgrounds and policy profiles.
The organization focuses on supporting Democratic veterans and their family members for office. In this case it is spending to advance Turek despite his lack of military service.
Key Facts
Potential Impact
- 01
The primary between the two Democratic candidates may become more competitive due to the advertising spending.
- 02
The winner of the primary will face a Republican opponent in a race Democrats view as potentially winnable.
- 03
Outside spending levels in future Iowa primaries may increase following this example.
Transparency Panel
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