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Iowa Senator Eyes 2026 Senate Run, Challenges Ernst
Iowa State Senator Zach Wahls Considers 2026 Senate Run, Challenges Ernst
DES MOINES, Iowa – Iowa State Senator Zach Wahls (D-Coralville) is considering a run for the U.S. Senate in 2026, potentially challenging incumbent Republican Senator Joni Ernst. Wahls confirmed his consideration to Gray Media Iowa, stating, “A lot of people have been talking to me about the U.S. senate since the election, and I’m certainly listening to that.” He plans to make a final decision after the Iowa legislative session concludes, likely in April or May.
This potential candidacy comes as Wahls publicly criticizes Ernst’s role in the confirmation of Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth. Following a report in *The Atlantic* detailing a Signal group chat where Hegseth shared details about an upcoming military strike against Yemen, Wahls issued a statement calling for Hegseth’s resignation, citing the risk to national security. He directly linked Ernst's vote to confirm Hegseth to the ensuing controversy, noting that she initially expressed concerns about his qualifications before ultimately voting in his favor under pressure from Trump supporters. Wahls stated, "Senator Ernst herself expressed serious doubts about Hegseth’s qualifications before yielding to political pressure. This is exactly what Washington does to politicians like Senator Ernst who care more about their status than serving their country." Ernst, a combat veteran and member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, has publicly expressed continued confidence in Hegseth, citing an upcoming independent report.
Wahls, first elected to the Iowa Senate in 2018, has served as minority leader and is a vocal advocate for political reform. He recently introduced legislation proposing term limits for the Iowa legislature and a ban on legislators trading individual stocks during their terms. These proposals align with his broader platform focused on bringing new perspectives and addressing issues such as political gridlock and the influence of money in politics. He argues that long-tenured politicians are often out of touch with the challenges facing Iowans. His potential campaign against Ernst, who pledged to serve only two terms, may center on this theme of political accountability.
While Ernst is expected to seek a third term and currently holds a significant advantage due to Iowa's Republican leanings and incumbent advantage, Wahls’ candidacy could inject significant energy into the race. His past activism, strong social media presence, and fundraising abilities could prove valuable assets in a challenging campaign. However, he will face an uphill battle in a state where Republicans generally outperform Democrats in general elections. Additionally, Ernst may face primary challengers, potentially softening her position heading into the general election.
DES MOINES, Iowa – Iowa State Senator Zach Wahls (D-Coralville) is considering a run for the U.S. Senate in 2026, potentially challenging incumbent Republican Senator Joni Ernst. Wahls confirmed his consideration to Gray Media Iowa, stating, “A lot of people have been talking to me about the U.S. senate since the election, and I’m certainly listening to that.” He plans to make a final decision after the Iowa legislative session concludes, likely in April or May.
This potential candidacy comes as Wahls publicly criticizes Ernst’s role in the confirmation of Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth. Following a report in *The Atlantic* detailing a Signal group chat where Hegseth shared details about an upcoming military strike against Yemen, Wahls issued a statement calling for Hegseth’s resignation, citing the risk to national security. He directly linked Ernst's vote to confirm Hegseth to the ensuing controversy, noting that she initially expressed concerns about his qualifications before ultimately voting in his favor under pressure from Trump supporters. Wahls stated, "Senator Ernst herself expressed serious doubts about Hegseth’s qualifications before yielding to political pressure. This is exactly what Washington does to politicians like Senator Ernst who care more about their status than serving their country." Ernst, a combat veteran and member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, has publicly expressed continued confidence in Hegseth, citing an upcoming independent report.
Wahls, first elected to the Iowa Senate in 2018, has served as minority leader and is a vocal advocate for political reform. He recently introduced legislation proposing term limits for the Iowa legislature and a ban on legislators trading individual stocks during their terms. These proposals align with his broader platform focused on bringing new perspectives and addressing issues such as political gridlock and the influence of money in politics. He argues that long-tenured politicians are often out of touch with the challenges facing Iowans. His potential campaign against Ernst, who pledged to serve only two terms, may center on this theme of political accountability.
While Ernst is expected to seek a third term and currently holds a significant advantage due to Iowa's Republican leanings and incumbent advantage, Wahls’ candidacy could inject significant energy into the race. His past activism, strong social media presence, and fundraising abilities could prove valuable assets in a challenging campaign. However, he will face an uphill battle in a state where Republicans generally outperform Democrats in general elections. Additionally, Ernst may face primary challengers, potentially softening her position heading into the general election.
