Sophia Joseph is an activist, advocate, and community leader in Cedar Rapids. She wrote this endorsement on behalf of We are CR.
We are CR is a local group made up of community members who long to see positive change in Cedar Rapids. Formed six years ago, we believe in voting together for candidates who represent the best interests of the people, recognizing that real change happens at the polls.
We are CR looks for candidates with strong voting records and progressive stances on issues. However, we also look for integrity, authenticity, a willingness to listen, and the courage to stand up for what is right regardless of opposition.
There was some hesitation before making an endorsement in the U.S. Senate primary pitting State Representative Josh Turek against State Senator Zach Wahls. We see good qualities in both candidates and, like most, feel change is desperately needed. In recent weeks, we’ve seen the passion supporters have for both of these candidates, and we believe this reflects that desire for change, and that democracy is strengthened by having strong candidates who inspire people.
With this in mind, we believe that making an endorsement fits with the key values of our group.
I was uniquely blessed to meet Turek at my home last week as he knocked on doors in my neighborhood. His strength was nothing short of admirable. I could never call Turek “establishment”; I am certain he has worked at least twice as hard for everything he has ever earned. He is the very definition of a fighter.
But when I asked the hard questions, about progressive values and the need for change, he went into a stump speech, before tidily wrapping up the conversation and moving along. Reporters were in tow, so I could see why he would make sure not to have a “gotcha” moment. But both reporters managed to reach out to me, so he could have as well, and he did know I was in the process of researching our endorsement of his race.
We had been leaning toward Wahls, because of the few “politicians” I have seen defy the powers that be to put people and principles first, several had endorsed Wahls: State Senator Liz Bennett, former Linn County Supervisor Stacey Walker, former State Senator Rob Hogg, and Cedar Rapids City Council member David Maier (full disclosure: David is a We are CR moderator).
Although Josh had stayed far from the weeds, I couldn’t help being taken by his strength and courage. He is out here hoisting himself onto porches to knock on doors, speak to people, and ask for their vote. If that isn’t admirable, I don’t know what is. I need to talk to Zach.
The next day, after word got to him, Zach called and we chatted easily. He’s down-to-earth, approachable, smart, and not afraid to call it like it is. For over an hour, he dug into the weeds with me. When I felt like I’d put him through enough and said I’d let him go, he responded, “Oh, I’m close to Coralville, let’s just go ahead and chat for these next 5 to 10 minutes. Let’s go back to what you said there…”
We got into policies, votes, and issues. He spoke of women’s health, maternity rates, health care, and jobs. I brought up immigration, Palestine, and racial disparities. He was willing to really dig into hot-button issues and stay in the conversation even when we didn’t align.
The Democratic Party lost the 2024 election against Donald Trump, the weakest candidate in history. We play defense full-time (I’m not sure if there is even an offensive plan), do a poor job of welcoming and encouraging emerging leaders, are not team players, put grudges over progress, and sell out to big money. The worst part is having leadership in denial, desperately clinging to power instead of fixing our broken party.
Turek aligns with, is supported by, and operates like the Old Guard. We saw the defensive strategy play out in his vote for a virulently anti-immigrant bill (Senate File 2340) in 2024. While I appreciate meeting him at my door, it is time for a new tide. Wahls understands the need to turn the table.
In my conversation with Zach, it was clear that he understood the gravity of the fight and who he is fighting for. I believe he has the fortitude and strength of character needed to maintain his integrity and make a positive impact, while holding a position of this magnitude. He cares.
While we would be proud to have either Wahls or Turek represent us in the U.S. Senate, this moment calls for a leader, and we believe that leader is Zach Wahls.
Top photo: State Senator Zach Wahls joins striking workers at Cargill in Cedar Rapids on October 10, 2024. Originally published on his Facebook page.
Editor’s note: Bleeding Heartland welcomes guest commentaries by any Democratic candidate running for office in 2026, or by their supporters. Please read these guidelines and contact Laura Belin if you are interested in writing.