Joni Ernst Announces Bid for Senate GOP Conference Chair

Ernst challenges Tom Cotton for the key leadership role amid broader Republican leadership changes.

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.