[link removed] [[link removed]]
John, I wanted to let you know that I’ve decided to suspend my campaign.

I jumped into this fight back in June because Iowans deserve better than a Senator whose response to their concerns about losing access to lifesaving healthcare is, “We are all going to die.”

Suddenly, Iowa wasn't seen merely as a "Safe Republican" seat anymore when our campaign got in — national ratings shifted us to "Likely Republican." It was a game-changer, spotlighting a unique opportunity for Iowa. As Republicans pushed through the Billionaire Bailout Bill and its cuts to Medicaid, it became glaringly clear how critical healthcare will be in 2026. We can't stand by while millions lose their coverage — and I'm convinced that no one is better suited to address these issues than State Rep. Josh Turek.

So I’m asking you today, John, will you join me in supporting Josh’s Senate campaign by pitching in today? [[link removed]]

If you've saved your payment information with ActBlue Express, your donation will go through immediately:

CHIP IN $10 NOW [[link removed]]
CHIP IN $25 NOW [[link removed]]

CHIP IN $50 NOW [[link removed]]
CHIP IN $100 NOW [[link removed]]

CHIP IN $250 NOW [[link removed]]
ANOTHER AMOUNT [[link removed]]

From the very beginning, I thought a prairie populist athlete from Western Iowa would be the best candidate to win in the General election. I still do, but instead of me, I have complete confidence that Josh Turek can take this on. That’s why I’m suspending my campaign and endorsing Josh, who is more than ready to tackle the challenges ahead.

I know this may be a shock to many of my supporters who genuinely believed we were the best positioned to win this race. This is a decision founded on friendship. As the only two Democrats serving west of Des Moines in the state legislature, Josh and I have bonded over our shared love of sports, our childhoods growing up in parts of the state often neglected by Democrats, and our dreams for the future of Democratic politics in Iowa that actually delivers for the working class and young people in our state. In April, I talked to Josh about running for Senate. A lot transpired — I jumped in — and he decided to run too. Ultimately, I decided he could carry the issues I care deeply about — universal health care, breaking up monopolies that are hurting farmers and consumers, and getting special interests out of politics. As his friend, I’m proud to support him.

[link removed] [[link removed]]

I’m deeply thankful for every volunteer, every donor, and everyone who placed faith in us. The profound impact we forged, reflected in strategies like our “Fair Game for Farmers and Us” plan, marked significant strides, setting a model for fellow candidates as we counter the farm crisis sweeping rural communities.

I remain committed to our cause and look forward to reconnecting on this shared path.

Standing tall for all,

J.D. Scholten
Scholten For Iowa
P.O. Box 5351
Sioux City, IA 51102
United States
[email protected] [[email protected]]
Paid for by Scholten for Iowa
This email was sent to [email protected] . If you wish to no longer receive these messages, please unsubscribe. [[link removed]]