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Senator Joni Ernst Retires, Sparking Competitive Iowa Senate Race

9/2/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Republican Senator Joni Ernst of Iowa will not seek re-election in 2026, focusing on family.
Her retirement creates an open Senate seat, with GOP Representative Ashley Hinson likely to run.
Democrats are motivated by recent state Senate victories, with four candidates already declared.
The GOP plans to defend and potentially expand its Senate majority in upcoming elections.

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Story summary

Republican Senator Joni Ernst of Iowa will not seek re-election in 2026, focusing on family.
Her retirement creates an open Senate seat, with GOP Representative Ashley Hinson likely to run.
Democrats are motivated by recent state Senate victories, with four candidates already declared.
The GOP plans to defend and potentially expand its Senate majority in upcoming elections.