Sioux City Times

Senator Joni Ernst addressed several issues related to government spending and national security in a series of posts on July 18, 2025. Ernst, who represents Iowa in the U.S. Senate, focused on Pentagon accountability, electric vehicle (EV) procurement by the U.S. Postal Service (USPS), and contractor vetting for defense contracts.

In her first post, Ernst wrote: "Americans wouldn’t leave their old credit cards sitting around, and there is no reason why taxpayer-funded credit cards should be treated any differently. I have ensured that when Pentagon bureaucrats leave, their credit cards are cut up." (July 18, 2025). The senator emphasized the importance of responsible management of government-issued credit cards to prevent misuse.

Later that day, Ernst criticized the Biden administration's handling of USPS fleet modernization efforts: "Biden’s multi-billion-dollar EV fleet for @USPS is lost in the mail and yet, they’ve postmarked over $1 billion for more orders. The rescissions package is a great start, but I am fighting to make DOGE a lifestyle in Washington and stamp out waste like this on a regular basis." (July 18, 2025). Her remarks reflect ongoing scrutiny over federal expenditures related to clean energy initiatives.

In her third statement of the day, Ernst addressed concerns about technology theft by foreign actors: "China is working hard to steal our technology and the last thing we need to do is leave the backdoor unlocked for them. By implementing a thorough vetting process for all Pentagon contractors, we can ensure a safer, stronger, and more secure America." (July 18, 2025).

The senator’s comments come amid heightened congressional oversight regarding federal procurement practices and cybersecurity risks associated with international adversaries such as China. Recent legislative efforts have sought to increase transparency and tighten controls over government-issued financial instruments and supply chains.