Ernst Will Not Seek Reelection
Iowa Republican Senator Joni Ernst has decided not to run for reelection in the upcoming midterms next year. The 55-year-old, who first joined the Senate in 2014, is expected to officially announce her retirement next week.
Ernst, a veteran who served in both the Army Reserve and the Iowa National Guard during the Iraq War, has been contemplating her future for some time now, weighing whether to pursue a third six-year term. Her decision to step down opens up a seat for Iowa.
Some Republicans have been critical of Ernst, claiming she doesn’t always align with traditional Republican values.
Representative Ashley Hinson, who is currently in her third term and previously worked as a television news anchor, has confirmed plans to run for Ernst’s position.
Iowa was once a critical battleground state, with President Obama winning it in both 2008 and 2012. However, it has seen a shift towards the right, as President Trump managed to increase Republican support significantly in the last two election cycles.
As it stands, Republicans hold both of Iowa’s Senate seats—Ernst’s and that of longtime Senator Chuck Grassley—along with all statewide offices. The only Democratic presence remains in the congressional districts, where Democrat Rob Sand currently serves as state auditor and is running for governor next year.
Despite these challenges, Iowa Democrats are feeling rejuvenated, especially after flipping two state Senate seats from Republican control in recent special elections.
So far, four Democrats have announced their candidacy for Ernst’s Senate seat, including state legislator Josh Turek, who is also a Paralympic athlete; State Senator Zack Worles; and Jackie Norris, the chair of the Des Moines Board of Education.
Ernst first gained national attention eleven years ago with her memorable Senate campaign, where she famously said “Make ‘em squeal” while running against the long-serving Democratic Senator Tom Harkin.
Drawing from her military experience, Ernst has frequently focused on defense issues. However, this year, she faced backlash for remarks made during a town hall when she responded to concerns about Medicaid cuts, stating, “we’ll all die,” which caused quite a stir.
Looking ahead, Republicans are not just aiming to defend their narrow 53-47 Senate majority but also hope to expand it in the 2024 election. They have favorable conditions ahead and are targeting states like Georgia, where Senator John Ossoff is seen as vulnerable, along with Michigan and New Hampshire, where Democratic Senators are not running for reelection.
This story is developing. Further updates will follow.
