Republican Ashley Hinson enters 2026 Iowa Senate race, succeeding retiring Senator Joni Ernst.

In the 2026 Iowa Senate race, Republican Congresswoman Ashley Hinson has announced her candidacy following Senator Joni Ernst's decision not to seek re-election. Ernst cited family reasons for her retirement, leaving open a seat in a state known for long-serving incumbents. Several Democrats, including state Sen. Zach Wahls and state Rep. Josh Turek, are also running for the Senate seat. The race is seen as an opportunity for Democrats to make gains.