After months of speculation about her political future, Senator Joni Ernst confirmed on Tuesday that she will not seek reelection when her term expires in 2026. The Iowa Republican made the announcement in a deeply personal statement, citing her desire to spend more time with family and return to her roots after years in public service.
“Having been raised in a family that gave me so much love and support, now, as our family grows and ages, it’s my time to give back to them,” Ernst said. “After a tremendous amount of prayer and reflection, I will not be seeking reelection in 2026. This was no easy decision.”
The announcement marks the end of an era for one of Iowa’s most recognizable political figures — a combat veteran, former state senator, and the first woman from Iowa elected to the U.S. Senate.
“I love my state and my country,” Ernst said in her remarks. “That love is what inspired me to wear our nation’s uniform and later run for elected office. I never imagined that a farm girl from southwest Iowa would one day serve as a lieutenant colonel and then as a United States senator. By the grace of God, Iowans gave me that chance 11 years ago, electing me as the first female combat veteran to the Senate.”
Throughout her tenure, Ernst made a name for herself as a vocal advocate for veterans, agriculture, and government accountability. She first gained national attention with her 2014 campaign promise to “make Washington squeal,” a reference to cutting wasteful spending — a slogan that resonated with voters frustrated by government inefficiency.
“They sent me to Washington with a mission,” Ernst said. “To cut waste, root out fraud, and rein in the overreach that stifles hardworking Americans. I’m proud to say that together, we’ve delivered.”
Her announcement came during a press event attended by longtime supporters, staff, and family members. Those who know her say the decision reflects Ernst’s long-standing belief that service should have limits. “She’s always said she didn’t want to be a career politician,” said a former campaign aide. “For her, it’s about impact, not longevity.”
Ernst’s decision not to seek another term immediately reshapes the political landscape in Iowa, opening the door for what is expected to be a highly competitive race in 2026. Her seat has been reliably Republican for years, but Democrats see her retirement as a potential opportunity to narrow the GOP’s grip on the Midwest.
Despite political speculation, Ernst made clear that her choice was personal, not strategic. “This isn’t about politics,” she said. “It’s about priorities. My family has sacrificed so much for me to serve, and it’s time I return that love and dedication.”
The senator’s tenure in Washington was marked by a mix of bipartisanship and conservative advocacy. She was known for her willingness to cross party lines on issues like mental health and veterans’ care while remaining firmly aligned with her party on fiscal responsibility and defense.
Colleagues on both sides of the aisle praised her leadership and authenticity. Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell called her “a fierce advocate for Iowa and a tireless fighter for our armed forces.” Meanwhile, Democratic Senator Tammy Duckworth, herself a combat veteran, described Ernst as “a principled public servant who understands the cost of service and the meaning of sacrifice.”
Her military background has always been central to her identity. Before entering politics, Ernst served in the Iowa Army National Guard, deploying to Kuwait and Iraq during Operation Iraqi Freedom. Her experience as a combat veteran shaped much of her political perspective, particularly on foreign policy and veterans’ affairs.
In her farewell message, Ernst reflected on those experiences and the lessons they taught her. “Service teaches you humility, discipline, and the importance of working toward something bigger than yourself,” she said. “That’s what I’ve tried to bring to my work every day in the Senate.”
As for what comes next, Ernst says she plans to focus on her family and community, though she left the door open for future involvement in public life. “I may not be in Washington, but I will always be working for Iowa,” she said. “There’s more than one way to serve.”
Her departure will leave a significant gap in Iowa politics. Ernst’s combination of military credibility, small-town relatability, and media savvy made her one of the Republican Party’s most effective messengers. Political analysts expect a crowded field of contenders from both parties to vie for her seat.
Meanwhile, supporters have expressed both sadness and gratitude for her years of service. “Joni Ernst has been a role model for women in public life,” said Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds. “She broke barriers, served with honor, and never forgot where she came from.”
In Washington, where political careers often end in scandal or defeat, Ernst’s decision to step away on her own terms struck many as refreshingly rare. “She’s leaving with her integrity intact,” said one longtime colleague. “That says a lot in this town.”
As she concluded her remarks, Ernst offered one final reflection: “Public service has been one of the greatest honors of my life. But the greatest joy has always been my family. I’m ready to go home — not to rest, but to serve in a different way.”