Sioux City Times

Joni Ernst, U.S. Senator from Iowa, used her social media platform on October 6, 2025, to comment on the ongoing government shutdown and related fiscal issues.

In a post published at 16:10 UTC, Ernst criticized what she called the "Schumer Shutdown," referencing Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer. She stated, "It is day six of the Schumer Shutdown. For the fourth straight 'work' day, taxpayers will foot the $400 million bill to pay 750,000 'non-essential' bureaucrats to sit at home and NOT WORK. Bringing the total cost of Democrats' shenanigans to $1.6 billion." [October 6, 2025]

Later that day at 18:16 UTC, Ernst posted about her participation in a veterans’ ceremony in Waukee: "Our American heroes are never forgotten. I was humbled to serve as a flag recipient at The Final Salute in Waukee to honor the unclaimed remains of veterans who made the ultimate sacrifice to protect our freedoms." [October 6, 2025]

At 18:51 UTC on October 6th, Ernst again addressed government spending during the shutdown: "Schumer’s Shutdown has provided a golden opportunity to slash waste, fraud, and abuse in DC. I have compiled a comprehensive list of more than $2 trillion of commonsense 'nonessential' government expenditures that should be put on the chopping block."

Government shutdowns have historically led to furloughs for federal employees classified as "non-essential," with back pay often granted after funding is restored. During such periods, debates over budget priorities and federal expenditures intensify among lawmakers.

Senator Joni Ernst has previously advocated for reducing government spending and increasing accountability within federal agencies.