Overview

• CBS News reports Ernst has told confidantes she will announce her decision next week, with a Thursday statement expected, and her office has not commented.
• Democrats already running include state Sen. Zach Wahls, state Rep. Josh Turek, Des Moines school board chair Jackie Norris and veteran Nathan Sage.
• GOP figures are weighing bids, with sources saying Rep. Ashley Hinson would consider running and NATO Ambassador Matt Whitaker is also a potential candidate.
• Ernst, 55, has privately cited a two‑term plan and a move to the private sector, following months of political pressure and fallout from a May town‑hall remark about Medicaid cuts.
• Iowa has trended Republican and the seat was rated likely GOP by Cook, yet an open contest could be more competitive in a state where Democrats last won a Senate race in 2008.