Senator Joni Ernst Declares She’s Not Running for Reelection in 2026: What It Means for Iowa’s Senate Race

Senator Joni Ernst of Iowa recently announced she will not run for reelection in 2026 after serving two terms. In a heartfelt video, she reflected on her journey, mentioning her surprise at becoming the first woman to represent Iowa in the Senate.

Ernst, who is 55, was elected in 2014 and made history as the first female combat veteran in the U.S. Senate. She described her decision as challenging, acknowledging the deep thought and prayer involved.

Her announcement comes in a political climate where she’s faced criticism from both parties. Democrats have challenged her stance on Medicaid cuts, while some Republicans questioned her support for Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth.

This decision opens a Senate seat in Iowa. Democrats see a chance to make gains, but the odds are tough. The state has leaned Republican, with Trump winning by over 13 points in 2024. The last Democrat elected to the Senate from Iowa was Tom Harkin in 2008. Despite these challenges, several Democrats, including state Rep. Josh Turek and state Sen. Zach Wahls, are vying for the nomination.

On the Republican side, speculation rises around potential candidates like Rep. Ashley Hinson and Matt Whitaker, the U.S. ambassador to NATO.

Throughout her time in the Senate, Ernst celebrated her efforts to support veterans, improve women’s safety, and eliminate government waste. She expressed her commitment to serving her community even after leaving office.

As the political landscape shifts, this announcement signals the start of an interesting race for Iowa’s open Senate seat.

For more on recent political trends and Senate dynamics, check out Pew Research for in-depth analysis and statistics on voter behavior and party strength across the U.S.

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