Iowa Democrat Eyes Senate Seat, Targets Joni Ernst’s Seat

Iowa Democrat Zackopts for Senate Run Against Joni Ernst

Iowa State Senator Zack Waltz is throwing his hat into the ring for a U.S. Senate seat, aiming to unseat Republican incumbent Joni Ernst. National Republicans are reportedly ready to spend nearly $30 million to defend Ernst’s position in November. This race comes at a critical time, as Democrats hope to flip seats in states that have leaned Republican in recent presidential elections. A key question is whether voters who supported Donald Trump will turn out for Republican candidates when Trump himself is not on the ballot.

Waltz’s Message: A New Generation for Iowa

Waltz, who describes himself as a “new generation of Democrat” and a sixth-generation Iowan, is campaigning on a platform of old Democratic values like hard work and family. He criticizes what he sees as a system that favors billionaires and insiders, emphasizing his commitment to workers’ and civil rights. “I’ll stand up to leaders of both parties because they’re not delivering for us,” Waltz stated in his campaign materials. He positions himself as an alternative to the status quo in Washington, arguing that Iowans are tired of the current political climate.

Addressing Iowan Concerns: Tariffs and Inflation

Iowa has consistently voted Republican in presidential elections, with Donald Trump winning the state by nearly 13 percentage points in 2024. Waltz acknowledges this, but points to a shift he sees among voters. “Iowa voters are sick of what’s happening in Washington,” he said, noting a significant drop in Trump’s approval rating in the state. Waltz believes this dissatisfaction is fueling overperformance in special elections, including six straight wins for Democrats in the Iowa state legislature. He highlights concerns about the economy, particularly the impact of tariffs on Iowa farmers and the rising cost of goods for consumers. “Folks are really upset about what’s happening in our economy,” Waltz observed during his travels across the state.

Waltz’s Economic Agenda: Cutting Tariffs and Wars

When asked about affordability, Waltz proposed two main solutions. First, he wants to end tariffs that he believes make everything more expensive. Second, he pledges to never vote to authorize an endless war in the Middle East. “Iowa has already paid too high of a human toll. And we are seeing the economic price as well,” Waltz explained, referencing the impact on gas prices and fertilizer costs. He argues that these are actionable steps he would take as a U.S. Senator to address Iowans’ concerns directly.

Challenging the Incumbent: Ashley Hinson

Waltz also addressed reports that his Republican opponent, Ashley Hinson, and her allies are actively supporting him in the Democratic primary. He interprets this as a tactic by Republicans who believe they can defeat him more easily than another primary candidate. Waltz criticized Hinson, calling her “one of the top ten sellouts in Congress” according to the Political Integrity Project. He accused her of voting to cut Social Security, co-sponsoring a total abortion ban, and being a “rubber stamp” for Trump’s policies. Waltz also pointed to Hinson’s votes against funding for rural health care, food assistance, and affordable energy, along with her support for ICE. “Ashley Hinson does not understand how angry Iowa voters are with leaders from both parties in Washington,” Waltz asserted. He aims to defeat her by presenting himself as a senator who works for Iowans, not for party leaders, super PACs, or corporations.

Foreign Policy Stance: Israel and a Two-State Solution

On the complex issue of foreign policy, specifically regarding aid to Israel, Waltz stated that while it’s not a frequent topic of discussion in Iowa, Iowans desire peace. He supports a two-state solution for the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. “I don’t think that the United States should be sending a blank check to Israel,” Waltz commented. He believes U.S. policy should actively promote a two-state solution, which he feels has not been the case recently. Waltz concluded by emphasizing his commitment to working for the people of Iowa, inviting them to learn more and get involved at ZachWaltz.com.

Source: 'We need a Senator who works for us': Iowa Dem has sights set on Joni Ernst’s seat (YouTube)