Sioux City Times

Senator Joni Ernst, representing Iowa in the U.S. Senate and a veteran of the Army National Guard, posted a series of statements on her X (formerly Twitter) account criticizing recent Congressional actions related to military funding and government operations.

On October 16, 2025, Ernst expressed disapproval of Congressional Democrats’ approach to military pay during budget negotiations. She stated, "Our military men and women are not political pawns. Democrats are admitting out loud that voting to pay servicemembers would reduce their leverage to secure taxpayer-funded healthcare for illegal immigrants. Absolutely shameful."

Later that day, Ernst referenced her own military background in a personal post, writing, "Can take the girl out of the Army, but can’t take the Army out of the girl. No better way to start the day than a ruck march on the National Mall. " The senator has served as a lieutenant colonel in the Iowa Army National Guard before entering public office.

On October 17, 2025, she commented on the ongoing federal government shutdown led by Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer. In her post, she claimed, "The Schumer Shutdown costs taxpayers $400 million a day to pay bureaucrats to NOT work." Government shutdowns occur when Congress fails to pass appropriations bills or continuing resolutions necessary to fund federal agencies. During these periods, many federal employees are furloughed or work without immediate pay while essential services continue.

The debate over military pay and funding has been a recurring issue during budget impasses in Congress. Lawmakers have often disagreed over provisions attached to spending bills, including those related to immigration policy and healthcare coverage for non-citizens.

Ernst’s comments reflect broader partisan disputes regarding government spending priorities and highlight concerns about the impact of shutdowns on both federal workers and military personnel.