Joni Ernst Won’t Run in 2026 | Iowa Senate Race Turns Competitive

Breaking News: Republican Senator Joni Ernst of Iowa has announced she will not seek reelection in 2026, opening up a key U.S. Senate seat.

This decision dramatically changes the political landscape, with Republicans eyeing Rep. Ashley Hinson as a frontrunner, while Democrats including Zach Wahls, Josh Turek, and Jackie Norris are gearing up for the fight.

Analysts now rate the race as “Likely Republican” instead of “Safe GOP,” giving Democrats their best shot in years to flip Iowa. With Senate control at stake, this could be one of the most watched races of 2026.

👉 What do you think? Could Iowa swing in 2026? Comment below!

📌 Stay tuned for more U.S. political updates and election news.
Joni Ernst 2026, Iowa Senate Race 2026, Joni Ernst not running, Joni Ernst retirement, Ashley Hinson Iowa, Zach Wahls 2026, Josh Turek Iowa, Jackie Norris Iowa, US Senate elections 2026, Iowa politics news, breaking political news 2025, 2026 Senate race battleground