Overview

• Sen. Joni Ernst (R-Iowa) is officially running for the Senate Republican Conference chair, challenging Sen. Tom Cotton (R-Ark.) for the position.
• The Senate Republican Conference chair is a key leadership role, responsible for developing the Senate Republican message and distributing talking points.
• Sen. John Barrasso (R-Wyo.), the current conference chair, is running for Senate GOP whip, opening up the position.
• The race for the Senate Republican Conference chair is part of broader leadership changes, including the race to succeed outgoing Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.).
• Ernst emphasizes her outsider status and believes the race is winnable, positioning herself as an independent thinker and voice of reason.