Sen. Ernst of Iowa is expected to announce next month that she won’t run for reelection in 2026
August 29, 2025
U.S. Sen. Joni Ernst is expected to announce next month she won’t seek reelection, leaving another vacancy in an Iowa seat that could have ripple effects down the ballot as Democrats look to the state for pickup opportunities. As Senate Republicans work to maintain their majority in the chamber, Ernst is joining a wave of her peers making headaches for the party. Sen. Thom Tillis of North Carolina turned down a reelection bid after clashing with President Donald Trump. Ernst plans to announce in September she’ll opt out of the race for a third term. That’s according to four people familiar with her plans who spoke on the condition of anonymity Friday to preview the announcement.