Ernst, Joni, 1970-

<p>Joni Kay Ernst (née Culver; born July 1, 1970) is an American politician serving as the junior United States Senator for Iowa since 2015. A Republican, she served in the Iowa State Senate from 2011 to 2014. Ernst served in the Iowa Army National Guard from 1993 to 2015, retiring as a lieutenant colonel.</p>

<p>Ernst was considered a "long shot" at the start of her 2014 Senate campaign but was boosted by support from the Koch brothers and an ad that gained nationwide attention in which she referenced her experience castrating pigs, saying she would "cut pork" in Congress. Having been strongly critical of President Barack Obama, she has been characterized as a reliable ally of President Donald Trump, and was thought to be a possible running mate in his 2016 campaign.</p>

<p>Ernst opposes legalized abortion, and has supported a fetal personhood amendment and introduced legislation to defund Planned Parenthood. She opposes the Affordable Care Act and has called for reforms to Medicare, Medicaid, and Social Security. She has indicated concern, although not opposition, to Trump's trade war with China and criticized some aspects of his foreign policy. While supporting both Trump's nominees for EPA administrator, she has expressed concern over their commitment to the Renewable Fuel Standard. She rejects the scientific consensus on climate change. At times, Ernst has appeared to support the idea that states can nullify federal laws, and has advocated for the elimination of federal departments such as the Department of Education and the Environmental Protection Agency, as well as the federal minimum wage.</p>

<p>Senator Joni Ernst, native of Red Oak, Iowa, has dedicated her life to her state and country, having served in the military for over 23 years and now in the United States Senate.</p>

<p>In November 2014, Joni was elected as the first woman to serve in federal elected office from the State of Iowa and also became the first female combat veteran elected to serve in the United States Senate. In Washington, Joni serves on four Senate committees of major importance to Iowans: Armed Services; Agriculture, Nutrition and Forestry; Environment and Public Works; and Small Business and Entrepreneurship.</p>

<p>Joni is focused on growing a vibrant economy and ensuring the government runs effectively and efficiently which means cutting out-of-control spending, reducing taxes, eliminating harmful regulations and balancing the budget.</p>

<p>Born and raised on a farm in Montgomery County, Joni’s parents instilled in her the values important to Iowans: hard work, service and sacrifice. As a mother, soldier and independent voice, Joni is committed to bringing these values to Washington, D.C.</p>