Iowa voters will elect a U.S. senator on November 3, 2026, in a contest for the Class II seat currently held by Republican Joni Ernst. Ernst, who has served since January 3, 2015, announced on September 2, 2025, that she will not seek re-election after two terms. In a video statement, Ernst cited prayer and reflection as factors in her decision, expressing gratitude for her service and a desire to focus on family. The announcement followed reports on August 29, 2025, indicating her plans to retire, marking the end of a tenure highlighted by her work on agriculture, veterans’ issues, and national security.
The open seat presents an opportunity for Republicans to maintain their hold in a state that has not elected a Democratic senator since Tom Harkin in 2008. Ernst won re-election in 2020 with 51.8% of the vote. The race is rated solidly Republican, reflecting Iowa’s shift toward conservative priorities like border security, economic growth, and reducing federal regulations. Fundraising and candidate announcements have accelerated since Ernst’s decision, with an emphasis on America First policies.
On the Republican side, U.S. Rep. Ashley Hinson, representing Iowa’s 2nd Congressional District since January 3, 2021, announced her candidacy on September 2, 2025, shortly after Ernst’s statement. Hinson, who flipped a Democratic-held seat in 2020, has positioned herself as a strong advocate for rural communities, agriculture, and fiscal responsibility. She received an endorsement from President Donald Trump on September 4, 2025, who praised her record on economic issues and border enforcement. Additional endorsements from Senate Republican leadership followed on September 5, 2025. As of June 30, 2025, Hinson’s House campaign had $1,456,782 cash on hand, providing a foundation for her Senate bid.
Other potential Republican contenders have not formally declared as of September 6, 2025, but speculation includes figures aligned with conservative values. The primary election is scheduled for June 2, 2026, with a possible runoff on July 7, 2026.
Democrats have consolidated around state Rep. Josh Turek, who announced his candidacy earlier in 2025. On August 18, 2025, fellow Democratic state Rep. Ryan Melton withdrew from the race and endorsed Turek, describing him as the best hope to challenge Republicans. Turek, a paraplegic veteran and advocate for disability rights, has focused on healthcare access and economic equity. Fundraising details for Democratic candidates as of June 30, 2025, show limited early activity compared to Republicans.
Independent candidates may also enter, though none have declared as of September 6, 2025. Filing deadlines are in March 2026.
My message to Iowans: pic.twitter.com/K6mHG6bSuE
— Joni Ernst (@SenJoniErnst) September 2, 2025
Recent revelations include Ernst’s confirmation of retirement plans first reported on August 29, 2025, which prompted immediate candidate movements. Hinson’s rapid announcement and high-profile endorsements underscore Republican efforts to secure the seat amid a favorable national environment for conservatives. As the cycle unfolds, the race could highlight issues like agriculture policy and energy independence, central to Iowa’s economy.No public polling on the race has been released as of September 6, 2025, but historical trends favor Republicans, who hold both Senate seats and a majority in the state’s congressional delegation.