Republicans Rally Behind Ashley Hinson for Joni Ernst’s Senate Seat
The Republican Party is uniting swiftly around Ashley Hinson, the Iowa representative poised to take over from Sen. Joni Ernst in a state known for its conservative leanings.
On Friday, Senate Majority Leader John Thune and National Republican Senatorial Committee Chair Tim Scott threw their support behind Hinson, who had announced her candidacy just days earlier. In a swift political maneuver, Hinson also secured an endorsement from President Donald Trump within hours.
“Having traveled Iowa with Ashley, I know she is the fighter the Hawkeye State needs to deliver President Trump’s agenda in 2026 and beyond,” Scott remarked, emphasizing Hinson’s commitment to conservative values. “Iowans are all-in for Ashley Hinson, and that’s why the NRSC and I are proud to stand with my friend, a proven conservative and staunch Trump ally.”
While Iowa isn’t at the top of Democrats’ lists for potential gains this election cycle, the party remains hopeful that with the right circumstances, it could come into play. For Democrats to flip the Senate, they need to gain four seats, and a non-competitive GOP primary could diminish their chances of seizing this pivotal opportunity.
In addition to endorsements from Thune and Scott, the Senate Leadership Fund—a super PAC closely aligned with GOP leadership—has also committed to backing Hinson’s campaign.
Hinson entered the race the same day Ernst revealed her decision to retire after two terms in the Senate. Ernst, who had previously indicated she would seek reelection, has encountered various setbacks in recent months, paving the way for Hinson to be seen as a viable successor.
The former television news anchor is not only a strong fundraiser but is also regarded as a rising star within the Republican Party, boasting $2.8 million in her campaign treasury earlier this year.
“We need conservative fighters in the Senate—and that’s exactly what we’ll get with Ashley Hinson,” stated Thune. “Ashley has been a fierce advocate of President Trump’s America First agenda and has played a crucial role in delivering significant victories in the House for Iowans and the American people.”
