Joni Ernst steps down, leaving Iowa Senate seat open for 2026

In a significant political development in the United States, Republican Senator Joni Ernst from Iowa made her official announcement on September 1, 2025, stating that she would not be seeking re-election in the upcoming 2026 Senate race. Ernst, who has served two terms since her election in 2014, expressed that this decision followed a considerable amount of prayer and reflection. She emphasized her desire to focus more on her family as they age and grow. This marks a notable moment in Iowa's political landscape as she was the first female combat veteran elected to the Senate. The announcement has opened up the Iowa Senate seat, which is highly competitive, particularly as Democrats are eager to contest this position given Iowa's shifting political dynamics in recent years. Previously, Iowa was a vital battleground state in presidential elections, having been won by Barack Obama in both 2008 and 2012. However, more recently, Iowa has leaned Republican, with Ernst and long-serving Senator Chuck Grassley currently holding both U.S. Senate seats and all four of the state’s congressional districts. Amid this changing political environment, the state has seen increased energy from Democrats, especially following special elections where they secured two GOP-held state Senate seats. With Ernst's decision not to run, a crowded field of Democratic candidates has emerged, including state Representative Josh Turek, state Senator Zach Wahls, and Knoxville Chamber of Commerce executive director Nathan Sage. Their interest highlights the potential for Democrats to expand their influence in a historically Republican stronghold. Ernst's announcement focused on the accomplishments achieved during her tenure, including her efforts to combat waste, fraud, and abuse within the federal government. She stressed that despite not seeking further electoral office, her commitment to serve her community would continue. In her statement, she signified her pride in being part of legislative changes aimed at supporting veterans and preventing violence against women. The political scene in Iowa is set to shift as Republicans and Democrats prepare for a competitive race to fill the open Senate seat in 2026.