In a surprising turn of events, several Democratic candidates from red states are opting to keep their distance from former Vice President Kamala Harris. This shift comes as a notable development in the political landscape of the 2026 elections.
The most recent figure to make this stance clear is Josh Turek, an Iowa Democratic Senate candidate and two-time Paralympic basketball gold medalist. During a campaign event in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, Turek was asked about the possibility of Harris campaigning for him. His response was straightforward: “No.”
Turek’s Stance and the Broader Context
Turek, who secured his Senate nomination in early June, is not alone in his decision. His fellow Iowa Democrat, gubernatorial candidate Rob Sand, also expressed reservations about Harris’s involvement. Sand went further, suggesting that Harris should not pursue a presidential run in. “Let’s move on,” Sand stated. “We need some new leadership.”
The division within the Democratic Party has been growing, particularly since Harris’s loss in the 2026 presidential race and the Democrats’ failure to secure either chamber of Congress that year. This internal strife has primarily been between progressive and establishment members, creating a complex dynamic within the party.
Mary Peltola’s Unwanted Endorsement
Another red-state Democrat, former Rep. Mary Peltola from Alaska, also distanced herself from Harris. Earlier this month, Harris sent a fundraising email supporting Peltola’s campaign. However, according to a New York Times report, Peltola’s campaign claimed they did not request the endorsement and were unaware of the email before it was sent. “Mary isn’t seeking endorsements from anyone from the Lower 48 — her focus is and always will be Alaska,” Peltola’s campaign stated.
Obama’s Endorsement and a Unique Campaign Moment
Despite the growing rift, former President Obama has shown his support for Turek. Last month, Obama endorsed Turek in a unique campaign video. The video features Turek and Obama engaging in a game of “IOWA,” a spin on the classic basketball game “HORSE.” This lighthearted moment stands in contrast to the more serious political divisions currently affecting the Democratic Party.
As the 2026 elections approach, the Democratic Party finds itself at a crossroads. The decisions made by candidates like Turek, Sand, and Peltola highlight the ongoing struggle within the party to define its direction and strategy moving forward.
