U.S. Senator Joni Ernst was honored by the Iowa Senate for her years of service to Iowa and the United States during her annual visit to the statehouse on Mar. 31.
The recognition underscores Ernst’s long-standing commitment to public service, both in military and civilian roles, as well as her historic achievements representing Iowa at the federal level.
Iowa State Senator Dan Zumbach introduced a resolution highlighting Ernst’s more than two decades of military service, including her time as a company commander during Operation Iraqi Freedom and retirement as a lieutenant colonel in the Iowa Army National Guard. “She has broken historic barriers as the first woman from the State of Iowa elected to federal office and the first female combat veteran to serve in the United States Senate,” Zumbach said. He also praised her focus on fiscal responsibility, support for agriculture, advocacy for biofuels, modernization of military resources, rural telehealth expansion, accountability at Veterans Affairs, and support for survivors of domestic violence.
Ernst responded by saying: “Answering the call to serve my nation and the great state of Iowa has been one of the greatest honors of my life. While that service requires no recognition, I’m moved that the folks in the Iowa Senate, including many past colleagues and lifelong friends, took the time to say thank you in such a thoughtful and meaningful way.”
Ernst’s background includes growing up on a family farm in Montgomery County where she learned values like hard work and service according to her official website. She earned degrees from Iowa State University (bachelor’s) and Columbus State University (master’s), according to the same source. In addition to being recognized as Iowa’s first woman elected to federal office upon joining Congress according to her official website, she serves on multiple committees focused on fiscal responsibility.
Her office helps Iowans with matters involving Social Security, Medicare, veterans benefits, immigration issues, and military affairs according to information provided by Ernst’s office.
The ceremony reflects broader appreciation within government circles for those who break new ground while serving their communities over many years.
