MAGA Celebrates as Notorious RINO Senator Known for Attacking Pete Hegseth Announces She Is Quitting Congress

Senator Joni Ernst, Iowa’s first female combat veteran in the U.S. Senate, has officially announced she will not seek reelection in 2026, ending years of speculation about her political future. Her decision marks a turning point for the state’s Republican Party, drawing cheers from some MAGA-aligned conservatives who long criticized her as a “Republican In Name Only.”

Ernst delivered her announcement in a heartfelt video, reflecting on her decades of public service. “Serving as your United States Senator has been the honor of my life,” she said. “From working on my family’s farm to serving over two decades in the Army Reserves and Iowa National Guard, and now in the Senate, I’ve been blessed to dedicate my life to our state and our country.”

While moderates praised her dedication and pragmatic approach, her departure was met with celebration among populist conservatives who saw her attempts at bipartisanship as a betrayal of core GOP values. Over the years, Ernst faced increasing scrutiny for opposing certain Trump-era initiatives, including a rumored cabinet nomination for conservative media figure Pete Hegseth, which drew sharp backlash from hardline voters.

Ernst’s critics branded her a “RINO,” accusing her of siding with Washington insiders and straying from grassroots priorities. On social media, her retirement sparked immediate commentary, with conservative activists hailing it as an opportunity for Iowa to elect a more “America First” senator in 2026.

Despite the criticism, Ernst emphasized that her decision was guided by family, not politics. “Having been raised in a family who gave me so much love and support, now as our family ages and grows, it’s time for me to give back,” she explained. Her announcement highlighted her gratitude for her journey from small-town Iowa to the halls of Congress, acknowledging her 11-year tenure as a first for women combat veterans in the Senate.

Ernst also reviewed her legislative accomplishments, pointing to efforts in reducing government waste, supporting farmers, strengthening the military, and advancing women’s protections. While these achievements were praised by some, her departure underscores the shifting political landscape in Iowa, where populist forces have increasingly dominated the Republican base.

Political analysts note that Ernst’s retirement signals a generational and ideological shift within the GOP. Rachel Klein of Drake University explained, “Joni Ernst’s departure marks the end of a kind of Republican leadership that valued compromise. The party’s base has changed, and moderation is now seen as disloyalty.”

The 2026 Iowa Senate race is already drawing attention, with speculation about potential candidates such as Representative Ashley Hinson, Governor Kim Reynolds, and businessman Gary Leffler. Ernst’s exit not only opens a competitive primary but also symbolizes the transition from traditional conservatism to a party shaped by loyalty tests and populist energy.

As Ernst concludes her Senate career, she remains committed to her constituents. “I’m not slowing down anytime soon,” she said. “I’ll keep fighting to make Iowans’ voices heard in Washington. Though this chapter is closing, I will always find ways to serve my community, state, and nation.”