Ernst announces she will not seek re-election

WASHINGTON  — Iowa Senator Joni Ernst made it official early this afternoon, announcing she will not seek another term in the United States Senate. 

“After a tremendous amount of prayer and reflection, I will not be seeking re-election in 2026. This was no easy decision. I love my state and country. It’s the very reason why I decided to wear our nation’s uniform and run for elected office in the first place. I never imagined this farm girl would have the opportunity to serve as a Lt. Colonel and then a United States Senator. Only in America, and by the grace of God,” Ernst says.

Ernst says she’s been proud of the work she’s done while in the Senate.  “11 years ago, Iowans elected me as the first female combat veteran to the US Senate, and they did so with a mission in mind, to make Washington squeal, and I’m proud to say, we have delivered. We’ve cut waste, fraud and abuse across the federal government and reigned in overburdensome rules and regulations.”

Reports last Friday indicated Ernst would make an announcement this week on her future. The 55-year-old Ernst has not revealed what her plans may be beyond January 2027, but said in the video that she “was not slowing down any time soon”.