Des Moines Sun

Sen. Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) has issued a statement following Sen. Joni Ernst’s (R-Iowa) announcement that she will not seek another term in the U.S. Senate.

Grassley highlighted Ernst’s service and achievements, noting her historic role as the Senate’s first female combat veteran and Iowa’s first woman elected to Congress. “It has been an honor to serve Iowans alongside my friend and colleague, Joni Ernst, since Iowans elected her in 2014. As the Senate’s first female combat veteran and Iowa’s first woman elected to Congress, she broke barriers at every turn and accomplished what she set out to do: ‘MAKE ‘EM SQUEAL.’ After a long career in the Iowa National Guard as well as elected office, Joni has served our country and state with pride and distinction. Barbara and I wish her well and know that whatever she chooses to do in her next chapter, they will be lucky to have this outstanding leader on the team. I will miss serving with Joni but know she will enjoy having more time to cherish her favorite role, as a mother and grandmother,” Grassley said.

He added, “Joni is a valued partner in the Senate, and I look forward to working together on issues important to Iowans throughout the remainder of her term.”