# Who is Ashley Hinson’s husband? Matt Arenholz lobbyist connections explained

> Iowa Senate candidate Ashley Hinson faces scrutiny over husband Matt Arenholz’s insurance industry ties and alleged shadow lobbying.
- Title: Who is Ashley Hinson’s husband? Matt Arenholz lobbyist…
- Summary: Iowa Senate candidate Ashley Hinson faces scrutiny over husband Matt Arenholz’s insurance industry ties and alleged shadow lobbying. Iowa Senate candidate…
- Keywords: ashley hinson, matt arenholz, iowa senate, shadow lobbyist, insurance industry, iowa democratic party, josh turek, Ashley, Hinson, husband, Matt, Arenholz
- Source: Newsweek — https://newsweek.com/who-is-ashley-hinsons-husband-matt-arenholz-lobby-connections-explained-12573211
- Published: 2026-10-16T14:00:00+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: ashley hinson, matt arenholz, iowa senate, shadow lobbyist, insurance industry, iowa democratic party, josh turek
## Who is Matt Arenholz?
Arenholz is an established insurance executive married to Iowa Senate candidate Ashley Hinson.
## Controversy over lobbying
Arenholz chaired the government affairs committee of the Independent Insurance Agents of Iowa, connected to national insurance trade groups.
## Ethics complaint
An ethics complaint filed with the Office of Congressional Conduct called for an investigation into Hinson for providing special access to lawmakers.
## Financial disclosure
Hinson’s August 13, 2026 financial disclosure lists $1 million to $5 million in privately held stock from High Street Insurance Partners.
## Hinson’s response
Hinson denied her husband is a lobbyist, stating he works as an insurance agent in their home basement.
## Polling race
The latest RealClearPolitics average shows Turek at 46.7 percent and Hinson at 45.8 percent, with Turek leading by 0.9 points.
## Key takeaway

Iowa Senate candidate Ashley Hinson denies her husband Matt Arenholz is a lobbyist, claiming he works as an insurance agent.