Hinson Announces Senate Bid in Iowa

Republican Rep. Ashley Hinson from Iowa declared on Tuesday her intention to run for the open Senate seat in 2026, following Sen. Joni Ernst’s decision not to seek reelection.

Hinson, who previously worked as a television news anchor and is in her third term in the House, is the first Republican to jump into the race since Ernst announced her retirement, effective early 2027. Many view Hinson as a rising figure within the party, potentially mounting a strong campaign to secure the nomination and maintain Republican control.

“From securing our borders and addressing illegal immigration to keeping men out of girls’ sports and reducing taxes for working families, I fight every day alongside Iowans for conservative values,” Hinson remarked in a statement announcing her candidacy. “As Iowa’s next senator, I’ll do everything I can to make America great!”

Hinson has reportedly raised nearly $3 million for her Senate campaign, including around $850,000 just in the second quarter of 2025. Recently, Iowa Republicans have been active in fundraising efforts, involving figures like Republican Sen. Eric Schmidt from Missouri and commentator Scott Jennings.

Prominent Trump allies, such as Indiana Sen. Jim Banks and Alabama Sen. Katie Britt, endorsed Hinson’s candidacy, with Banks stating, “There’s no doubt she’s the conservative fighter that the Senate needs to advance President Trump’s agenda and keep America on the right track.”

While Hinson’s candidacy has gained traction, some observers mention Matt Whitaker, the U.S. ambassador to NATO, as another potential candidate. Whitaker previously ran for this Senate seat in 2014.

The National Republican Senatorial Committee expressed confidence that Republicans would be able to retain the open Senate seat in Iowa for the mid-term elections, noting in a statement that the race remains classified as “likely Republican” despite Ernst’s retirement.