Overview

• CBS News first reported that Ernst told confidantes she will not run again, with an announcement expected Thursday, a detail corroborated by multiple outlets.
• The retirement turns a seat previously rated Likely Republican by the Cook Political Report into an open race with potential implications for the GOP’s narrow 53–47 Senate majority.
• Democrats already in the race include state Sen. Zach Wahls, state Rep. Josh Turek, Des Moines School Board Chair Jackie Norris and veteran Nathan Sage.
• Republicans are weighing successors, with Rep. Ashley Hinson frequently cited as well positioned to run and others such as NATO Ambassador Matt Whitaker said to be considering bids.
• GOP leaders and White House officials had encouraged Ernst to seek another term, but sources say she has long signaled a two‑term plan and intends to move to the private sector.