Trump ally Sen. Joni Ernst announces retirement in huge blow to GOP

Sen. Joni Ernst (R-IA) announced Tuesday that she won’t be seeking a third term in a video posted to social media, setting the stage for a contested Senate seat in the state of Iowa which, while not considered a swing state, has historically been competitive.

“After a tremendous amount of prayer and reflection, I will not be seeking re-election in 2026,” Ernst said in a video message, posted on the social media platform X. “This was no easy decision; I love my state and country.”

Ernst was first elected in 2014 after a Democratic lawmaker had held the seat for three decades, and has been a key ally to President Donald Trump throughout his two terms. She took heat from her own constituents in defense of Trump in May after telling a chaotic town hall “we’re all going to die” in response to a question about Medicaid cuts.

With Ernst’s retirement, the Senate GOP is now set to lose at least two unexpected members in 2026, with Sen. Thom Tillis (R-NC) announced his retirement in June following a public spat with Trump over the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, particularly over its cuts to Medicaid.

Watch the video below or use this link.