Joni Ernst has announced that she will not seek reelection in 2026, ending months of speculation about her political future and opening the door to a potentially competitive Senate race in Iowa.

In a lengthy statement reflecting on her career and accomplishments, Ernst said the decision came only after “a tremendous amount of prayer and reflection.” She described stepping away from the Senate as one of the most difficult choices she has made in public life.

“This was no easy decision,” Ernst stated while addressing supporters and constituents.

The Republican senator used the announcement to reflect on her personal journey from rural Iowa to national politics. Ernst emphasized her upbringing on a farm and her years of military service before entering elected office.

“I love my state and my country,” she said. “That is why I chose to wear the uniform of the United States military and later run for office.”

Ernst also highlighted the historic nature of her election to the Senate more than a decade ago. In 2014, she became the first female combat veteran elected to the U.S. Senate, a milestone she said she remains deeply proud of.

“I never imagined that a farm girl from Iowa would have the chance to serve as a lieutenant colonel and later as a United States senator,” she added.

Throughout her remarks, Ernst defended her record in Washington and argued that she had remained committed to the promises she made when first campaigning for office. She pointed to efforts aimed at reducing federal spending, cutting regulations, and addressing government inefficiency as major achievements during her tenure.

“They sent me to Washington with a mission to make Washington squeal,” Ernst said. “And I believe we delivered.”

The senator specifically mentioned initiatives focused on reducing waste, fraud, and abuse within federal agencies. She also praised efforts to roll back what she described as excessive government rules and regulations that she believes hurt businesses and taxpayers.

Ernst’s decision not to run again is expected to trigger significant interest from both Republicans and Democrats hoping to compete for the seat in 2026. Political analysts believe the race could become one of the more closely watched Senate contests of the election cycle, particularly as both parties battle for control of Congress in the coming years.