U.S. Sen. Joni Ernst Announces Decision Not to Seek Relection

After a storied career spanning over two decades in politics and military service, Iowa's first female U.S. Senator, Joni Ernst, has made the announcement that she will not seek reelection.

A Veteran's Journey to Congress

Joni Ernst was born on April 1, 1960, in Osceola, Nebraska. She grew up with a strong sense of patriotism and duty, which would shape her future career choices. After graduating from Iowa Wesleyan College in 1985, Ernst earned a Master's degree in Business Administration from the University of Northern Iowa.

Military Service

Erstn enlisted in the United States Army Reserve in 1991 and served for over two decades. Her military experiences played a pivotal role in shaping her leadership skills and sense of duty. In 2007, Ernst was deployed to Iraq as a lieutenant colonel and commander of an agricultural security team.

Election to Congress

Erstn's military service did not deter her from pursuing a career in politics. She won the Republican primary in Iowa's 4th congressional district in 2014 and went on to defeat Democratic nominee David Young in the general election, becoming the first woman elected to Congress from Iowa.

Time in Congress

During her time in Congress, Ernst has been an ardent supporter of the military and veterans. She has sponsored legislation aimed at supporting wounded warriors, improving VA healthcare, and promoting patriotism and national security.

Notable Legislation

• The Purple Heart Act (2015): Ernst co-sponsored this bill to increase funding for prosthetics and assistive devices for veterans.
• The Veterans' Choice Program Improvement Act (2017): She sponsored this legislation to improve access to healthcare services for veterans.
• The Stop Foreign American Travel Act (2020): Ernst was a strong supporter of this bill aimed at restricting travel to the United States by foreign nationals on certain lists.

Relection Decision

After serving two full terms in Congress, Joni Ernst has announced that she will not seek reelection. This decision marks the end of an era for Iowa's 4th congressional district and a testament to her commitment to public service.

A Legacy of Service

Joni Ernst's decision to step down from politics does not diminish her legacy as a dedicated public servant. Her military service, legislative achievements, and commitment to supporting our nation's veterans have made a lasting impact on Iowa and the country at large.

A New Chapter

As Ernst transitions out of politics, it is essential to acknowledge the profound influence she has had on the lives of countless individuals in Iowa and beyond. As we look to the future, her legacy will continue to inspire new generations of leaders and public servants.

Key Dates

• April 1, 1960: Joni Ernst was born in Osceola, Nebraska.
• 1985: Graduated from Iowa Wesleyan College.
• 1991: Enlisted in the United States Army Reserve.
• 2007: Deployed to Iraq as a lieutenant colonel and commander of an agricultural security team.
• 2014: Won the Republican primary in Iowa's 4th congressional district.
• 2020: Announced decision not to seek reelection.