On Friday evening, the Iowa Republican Party hosted its annual Reagan dinner in Des Moines, bringing together state leaders, volunteers, and Ernst’s family to salute the departing U.S. senator. Chair Jeff Kaufmann opened the event, declaring the night “dedicated to our wonderful, our terrific United States Senator Joni Ernst.”
Tributes from Iowa’s political veterans
Long‑time Iowa stalwart Sen. Chuck Grassley praised Ernst’s twelve‑year service, noting, “I’ve worked with Joni Ernst in the United States Senate for the last 12 years. She told me several times that I was her mentor, but I see her as a good friend and a partner all the time.”
Other GOP figures, including Senate candidate Ashley Hinson, joined in person and via video. Ernst’s children and grandchildren also appeared, underscoring the family‑oriented tone of the gathering.
Ernst reflects on service and looks ahead
In her closing remarks, Ernst reflected on her time in the Senate and her earlier service in the Iowa National Guard. She thanked her staff and Iowans, emphasizing that “family should always be number one.” Ernst noted that her last day in office will be Jan. 3, after which she plans to enjoy retirement with her loved ones.
Race to replace Ernst takes center stage
While the dinner celebrated Ernst’s career, the conversation quickly turned to the upcoming race for her seat. Republican nominee Ashley Hinson framed the contest as “common sense against crazy,” accusing Democrat Josh Turek of masquerading as a moderate. “There are a lot of tough fights in Washington, and you can’t bend, you can’t break, and you can’t back down,” Hinson said.
Turek’s campaign responded, calling Hinson’s attacks “lies” and labeling her a “corrupt D.C. politician” who serves “billionaire donors.” The sharp rhetoric highlights the high‑stakes nature of the November ballot, where Iowa voters will decide whether the seat stays in Republican hands.
Local significance
The Reagan dinner underscores the Iowa GOP’s commitment to honoring public service while rallying support for its candidates. By featuring both veteran leaders and emerging voices, the event reinforces the party’s focus on traditional values, faith‑based community, and individual liberty—principles that resonate with Iowa’s conservative base.
As the campaign season intensifies, Iowa Republicans will likely use gatherings like this to mobilize volunteers, raise funds, and solidify messaging ahead of the November election. The outcome will shape Iowa’s representation in the Senate and influence the balance of power in Washington.
Original reporting: KCCI Des Moines — read the source article.
