At Modern Woodmen Park in Davenport, Iowa, Democratic Senate candidate Josh Turek laid out his core priorities for the upcoming state election. Speaking to a crowd of local residents, Turek emphasized three pillars he believes will strengthen families and communities across the state.
Living wage for Iowa families
“I’m gonna fight for a livable wage because $7.25 is not a livable wage for families,” Turek said. He called for raising the state minimum wage to a level that reflects the cost of housing, food and child‑care, arguing that a higher floor will give parents the ability to provide for their children without sacrificing basic needs.
Removing private‑equity from health‑care and housing
Turek pledged to push legislation that would curb private‑equity ownership of nursing homes, hospitals and rental properties. “I’m gonna go up there and fight to drive private equity outta housing and health care and nursing homes,” he declared, positioning the move as a safeguard for affordable, high‑quality services.
He framed health care as a fundamental right, stating, “I’m someone that believes that health care is a human right and you shouldn’t have to win the genetic lottery to have access to basic health care.” The candidate said his plan would expand Medicaid, protect rural hospitals and increase transparency in insurance pricing.
Modernizing Iowa’s education system
Education was the third focus of Turek’s rally. He argued that Iowa’s schools must be realigned to keep pace with national standards, calling for increased funding for teachers, updated curricula that prepare students for a technology‑driven economy, and greater parental involvement in school decisions.
“We need an education system that equips our kids for the future, not one that lags behind,” Turek asserted, urging voters to support candidates who prioritize school choice and local control.
Broader political context
The rally took place alongside a visit from President Donald Trump, who addressed supporters in Sioux City earlier in the day. Republican Rep. Ashley Hinson, a Trump ally, also spoke at the President’s event, underscoring the partisan contrast between the two campaigns.
In the same evening, Iowa’s 1st Congressional District candidate Christina Bohannan appeared at Turek’s gathering, while her opponent, Rep. Mariannette Miller‑Meeks, hosted a manufacturing roundtable in Burlington. The overlapping events highlight the competitive nature of Iowa’s upcoming elections, with both parties mobilizing supporters across the Quad Cities.
What’s next for voters?
As the primary filing deadline approaches, Turek’s message aims to resonate with working‑class families who feel the pinch of low wages, rising health‑care costs, and an education system that needs reform. He urged residents to register early, attend town‑hall meetings and spread the word about his platform.
“Our state deserves leaders who put families first,” Turek concluded, calling on Iowans to vote for change that aligns with Christian values, traditional family stability, and individual liberty.
Original reporting: KWQC TV6 Davenport (local) — read the source article.
