U.S. Senator Joni Ernst used her social media platform on March 26 and 27, 2026, to comment on both local sports and ongoing federal funding disputes involving the Department of Homeland Security (DHS).
On March 26, Ernst posted support for Iowa’s basketball team from Washington, stating, “Cheering on the Hawkeyes from our nation’s Capitol! https://t.co/dSghx8u2Vl”.
Later that evening and into the next day, Ernst turned her attention to congressional negotiations over DHS funding. On March 27, she wrote, “While Democrats have refused to join @SenateGOP to fund @DHSgov, President Trump is pushing through the politics to pay our TSA agents. Now, Democrats must join us in fully funding the rest of DHS. https://t.co/V4tu0gs9r6”.
Shortly after, she added another post directed at travelers and workers affected by a potential shutdown: “If you missed a flight or paycheck because of Democrats’ @DHSgov shutdown — or even got stuck waiting in line for hours: Call Chuck Schumer. Tell him to fully fund @DHSgov today. https://t.co/q47JwIqjSq”.
Ernst serves as a U.S. senator representing Iowa and is known for her background in military service—having spent over 23 years in the Iowa Army National Guard and achieving the rank of lieutenant colonel—and for being the first female combat veteran elected to the United States Senate. She also became the first woman from Iowa elected to federal office upon joining Congress (official website). In addition to legislative work focused on fiscal responsibility and budget improvements, her office provides assistance to Iowans with matters related to Social Security, Medicare, veterans benefits, immigration issues, and military affairs.
Born and raised on a family farm in Montgomery County, Iowa—where values of hard work and service were emphasized—Ernst holds degrees from Iowa State University and Columbus State University (official website).
