That she will not seek reelection in 2026, describing the decision as one of the most difficult she has faced during her political career. Speaking directly to supporters, Ernst said the choice came only after what she characterized as extensive prayer and reflection, emphasizing that her priorities have evolved as her family has grown older.
Continuing her remarks, Ernst explained that the values instilled in her throughout her upbringing played a central role in reaching her conclusion. She spoke about being raised in a family that consistently provided her with love, encouragement, and support throughout every stage of her life. According to Ernst, those experiences shaped her understanding of responsibility, sacrifice, and service. Now, as circumstances within her own family continue to change with time, she believes the moment has arrived to return that same level of care and commitment to the people who have always stood beside her.
“Having been raised in a family who has given me so much love and support, now as our family ages and grows, it’s my time for me to give back to them,” Ernst stated while explaining the deeply personal reasons behind her decision.
She acknowledged that stepping away from elected office was not an easy conclusion to reach. Rather, she described it as the result of careful consideration over an extended period, balancing the demands of public office with the responsibilities she feels toward her family. Ernst stressed that serving the people of Iowa has been one of the greatest honors of her life, but said every chapter eventually comes to an end.
“After a tremendous amount of prayer and reflection, I will not be seeking reelection in 2026. This was no easy decision,” she said.
The announcement marks a significant turning point for one of Iowa’s most recognizable political figures. Ernst has represented the state in the United States Senate since first winning election in 2014, becoming widely known for emphasizing fiscal conservatism, military service, and government accountability throughout her tenure.
As she continued her speech, Ernst reflected on the path that brought her from rural Iowa to the United States Senate. She described herself as someone who never expected such opportunities while growing up on a farm, emphasizing that her journey represented what she believes is possible through hard work, determination, and public service.
“I love my state and country,” she said. “It’s the very reason why I decided to wear our nation’s uniform and run for elected office in the first place.”
Ernst reminded listeners that before entering politics, she served in the military, eventually attaining the rank of lieutenant colonel. Looking back on that chapter of her life, she described military service as one of the defining experiences that prepared her for the responsibilities of representing Iowa in Washington.
She noted that serving in uniform taught her leadership, discipline, and the importance of putting the needs of others before her own. Those lessons, she said, continued to guide her throughout her years in the Senate.
Reflecting on her historic election, Ernst recalled that she became the first female combat veteran elected to the United States Senate, an accomplishment she said she never imagined would become part of her life’s story.
“And by the grace of God, 11 years ago, Iowans elected me as the first female combat veteran to the U.S. Senate,” she said.
Ernst expressed gratitude toward Iowa voters for placing their trust in her over the years. She characterized that support as both humbling and motivating, saying she viewed her election as carrying a clear mandate from constituents who wanted meaningful change in Washington.
According to Ernst, the mission voters entrusted to her was straightforward: challenge the political establishment and push for reforms that she believed would improve the functioning of the federal government.
“They did so with a mission in mind, to make Washington squeal,” Ernst remarked while reflecting on her first campaign.
Looking back over her time in office, Ernst highlighted several areas that she believes define her legislative record. Among them, she pointed to efforts aimed at reducing government spending, identifying wasteful federal programs, and strengthening oversight of taxpayer dollars.
She argued that her office consistently worked to expose examples of fraud, waste, and abuse within federal agencies while supporting measures intended to improve government efficiency. Ernst also emphasized her support for reducing regulations that she believes create unnecessary burdens on businesses, farmers, and workers.
“I’m proud to say we have delivered,” she stated. “We’ve cut waste, fraud, and abuse across the federal government, and reined in overburdensome rules and regulations.”
Throughout her remarks, Ernst sought to frame her Senate career not simply as a series of legislative accomplishments but as an extension of the values she carried from her upbringing in rural Iowa and her years in military service.
While announcing that she would not pursue another term, Ernst made clear that her decision should not be interpreted as a loss of commitment to Iowa or to the country. Instead, she suggested that public service can take many forms and that dedicating more time to family represents another important responsibility she now feels called to fulfill.
Her announcement is expected to have significant political implications, as it opens a competitive Senate race in Iowa and begins a new chapter for both Ernst personally and the state’s political landscape. For supporters, her departure marks the conclusion of more than a decade in the Senate during which she frequently focused on government oversight, fiscal issues, military affairs, and agricultural interests.
As the 2026 election cycle approaches, attention will increasingly shift toward the candidates who seek to succeed her. Meanwhile, Ernst’s announcement serves as a reminder that even long-serving public officials eventually face decisions balancing professional responsibilities with personal priorities.
Ending her remarks on a reflective note, Ernst emphasized that while her time in elected office may be drawing to a close, her appreciation for the opportunity to serve Iowa remains unchanged. She thanked voters for the confidence they placed in her throughout her Senate career and reiterated that her decision came after careful thought, prayer, and a sincere belief that the next season of her life should be devoted more fully to her family.
