Sioux City Times

Senator Joni Ernst, a Republican representing Iowa, addressed several topics in a series of tweets posted on July 15, 2025. Her posts covered the appointment of Austin Strawhacker as State Director at Iowa Small Business Development Center (IowaSBDC), criticism of California’s high-speed rail project, and her ongoing oversight efforts regarding federal spending.

In her first tweet at 17:34 UTC, Senator Ernst congratulated Austin Strawhacker on his new role. She stated, "Congratulations to Austin Strawhacker for being named State Director @IowaSBDC. Austin has been a fierce advocate for Iowa small businesses, and I am excited to see all that he will accomplish for our great state."

Later that day at 18:40 UTC, Senator Ernst commented on California's high-speed rail project. She wrote, "You can't make this up. California’s crazy train, already $100 billion over budget, is now seeking over $1 billion more per year – even though not one track has been laid. This is why I have been working to bring this gravy train to a squealing halt!"

At 21:48 UTC on the same day, Senator Ernst addressed issues of accountability in Washington. She stated, "Accountability has been lacking in Washington – especially at USAID and public broadcasting. My oversight has exposed waste, fraud, and abuse nearly too insane to believe that must be ended by Congress through the *FIRST* rescissions package."

Austin Strawhacker previously served as Associate State Director for the Iowa SBDC before his recent appointment as State Director.

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