Swing-State GOP Senator Reportedly Will Not Seek Re-Election in 2026

Senator Joni Ernst of Iowa is reportedly preparing to announce that she will not seek re-election in 2026, according to CBS News senior White House reporter Jennifer Jacobs. Ernst, a two-term Republican senator from a key swing state, has allegedly informed close allies of her decision. The announcement is expected next week.

While Ernst has publicly avoided confirming her plans, she recently addressed the growing number of Democratic challengers. Speaking to the Westside Conservative Club, she said, “Bring it on,” expressing confidence that Iowa will remain under Republican control. Democrats who have already entered the race include state Sen. Zach Wahls, state Rep. Josh Turek, and Des Moines School Board chairwoman Jackie Norris.

Sources say Ernst has long planned to serve only two terms and now wants to pursue opportunities in the private sector. If confirmed, her departure would add to a growing list of Republicans leaving the Senate, including Thom Tillis (North Carolina), Tommy Tuberville (Alabama), and Mitch McConnell (Kentucky).

The news comes amid broader political shifts. Former President Donald Trump recently proposed holding a Republican national convention just before the 2026 midterms to energize the party. Trump cited strong fundraising and voter enthusiasm as signs of GOP momentum heading into the next election cycle.

At the same time, Democrats are facing troubling trends. A New York Times report revealed a net swing of 4.5 million voter registrations toward Republicans between 2020 and 2024, with major losses for Democrats in key battleground states, heightening their 2026 challenges.