Sen. Joni Ernst, US Senator for Iowa | Joni Ernst Official Webste
Sen. Joni Ernst, US Senator for Iowa | Joni Ernst Official Webste
Joni Ernst, U.S. Senator representing Iowa, posted a series of tweets on October 8, 2025, addressing government spending during the ongoing federal shutdown and commenting on recent developments in the Middle East.
In her first tweet on October 8, Ernst criticized the financial impact of the current government shutdown, writing: "The total cost of Schumer's Shutdown shenanigans has reached $2.4 billion.
For the sixth straight workday, taxpayers will foot a $400 million bill to pay 750,000 'non-essential' federal employees to NOT WORK."
Later that day, Ernst highlighted her efforts to identify further budget cuts in response to the shutdown. She stated: "I’ve identified $2 trillion worth of non-essential government expenditures for @russvought to cut during the Schumer Shutdown."
In her final tweet of the evening, Ernst turned her attention to international affairs and praised former President Trump’s role in recent hostage releases in the Middle East. She posted: "President Trump is the peace president!
Finally, the living nightmare the hostages have been forced to endure will end and Americans Itay and Omer can be laid to rest.
I look forward to working with our partners towards continued peace and prosperity in the Middle East!"
The term "Schumer Shutdown" used by Ernst refers to a political dispute that resulted in a partial closure of federal government operations. During such shutdowns, "non-essential" federal employees are typically furloughed or required to work without immediate pay until funding is restored. Disagreements over appropriations bills have led to several shutdowns in recent decades.
Ernst’s reference to Russ Vought is directed at the former Director of the Office of Management and Budget under President Trump, who is known for advocating significant reductions in federal spending.
Her comments regarding Americans Itay and Omer relate to recent reports about American hostages in the Middle East being released or their remains being recovered as part of ongoing diplomatic efforts.
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