Jim Carlin Challenges Joni Ernst for Senate Seat

Former Iowa State Senator Jim Carlin, founder of the Iowa Liberty Network, has announced a Republican primary challenge against incumbent U.S. Senator Joni Ernst for the 2026 Senate race. Carlin criticizes Ernst for not delivering on her campaign promises and claims she has strayed from conservative values. Ernst, who has held the seat since 2015, has not officially announced her reelection bid but has hired a campaign manager, signaling her likely candidacy for a third term. Other candidates include Republican Joshua Smith and Democrats J.D. Scholten and Nathan Sage, setting up a competitive race. Carlin's campaign focuses on representing Iowans over special interests, while Ernst's team defends her conservative record. The primary race highlights divisions within Iowa's Republican Party, particularly among 'America First' conservatives.