Sen. Joni Ernst announced that she will not seek reelection in 2026, saying the decision came only after “a tremendous amount of prayer and reflection.”
“This was no easy decision,” Ernst said as she confirmed she would step away from the Senate at the end of her current term.
Reflecting on her career, Ernst said her commitment to serving both Iowa and the nation has guided every step of her public life.
“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 that this farm girl would have the opportunity to serve as a lieutenant colonel and then as a United States Senator, all in America,” she said.
Ernst also highlighted her historic election to the Senate.
“And by the grace of God, 11 years ago, Iowans elected me as the first female combat veteran to the U.S. Senate,” she said.
Looking back on her time in office, Ernst argued that she fulfilled the mission she campaigned on.
“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 reined in overburdensome rules and regulations,” Ernst said.
Her announcement marks the end of more than a decade in the Senate and is expected to set up a closely watched race for the seat in 2026.
