BURSTSen. Joni Ernst (R-Iowa) formally announced in a video on Tuesday that she would not seek reelection in next year’s midterm elections.
“I will not be seeking reelection in 2026,” Ernst said. “This was no easy decision. I love my state and country.”
A GOP operative confirmed to The Hill last week that Ernst was expected to forgo seeking a third term. The operative noted that Rep. Ashley Hinson (R-Iowa), a former reporter-turned-lawmaker who’s served in Congress since 2021, is likely best positioned to replace her.
The nonpartisan election handicapper Cook Political Report had rated her seat as “likely Republican” before news of her expected retirement broke.
Ernst was first elected in 2014, replacing former Sen. Tom Harkin (D-Iowa.).
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