Republican Senator Announces Decision Not to Seek Re-Election

As the mid-term elections in 2026 approach, some Republican senators have made headlines by opting not to run again.

On Tuesday, Sen. Joni Ernst (R-Iowa) confirmed long-held rumors and declared her decision not to pursue a third term. She made this announcement through a video shared on X.

In her message, Ernst emphasized, “Protecting life and the most vulnerable among us is the most important measure of any society.”

She continued, “It has been an honor to serve our great nation. Growing up in a loving family has encouraged me to give back as my family ages.”

The Senate Leadership Fund quickly reacted to her announcement. Executive Director Alex Ratcham expressed gratitude for her service, noting, “Senator Ernst has been a conservative leader throughout her time in office. We wish her the best in her retirement. I’m sure the people of Iowa will elect strong representatives again in the next election.”

Ernst, now 55, made history in 2014 as the first woman elected to the U.S. Senate from Iowa.

Throughout her tenure, she consistently supported Republican policies and served as a voice for military personnel and women’s issues. She did ruffle some feathers within her own party, particularly during the nomination process for Secretary of Defense post-Trump’s victory last year amid allegations against another candidate. Nevertheless, she ultimately cast her vote in favor of the nominee.

Ernst has been a staunch advocate for the pro-life movement, supporting legislation that protects babies who survive abortion attempts. She has voiced her belief that “protecting life and the most vulnerable among us is the most important measure of any society.”

While Iowa has enacted some of the strictest abortion laws in the U.S., a recent poll indicated that a significant majority—64% of Iowans—believe abortions should remain legal in most circumstances.