US CONGRESS · SITTING

Joni Ernst

Senator for Iowa · Republican · United States

IN THEIR OWN WORDS

“Whether providing a young person with their first job, supporting a local cause, or creating a place where neighbors can gather, Truett, Sheena, and their employees continue to give back to the community that has supported Ludlow's over the past two decades.”
Senate29 September 2026Source ↗

“Madam President, as chair of the Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, each week I recognize and outstanding Iowa small business that exemplifies the American entrepreneurial spirit. This week, it is my privilege to recognize North Lumber & Home Center of Decatur County, IA, as Senate Small Business of the Week.”
Senate29 September 2026Source ↗

“Their generosity has even reached beyond Iowa, including a donation supporting a Lamoni livestock relief effort bound for Oklahoma in March 2026. I am pleased to recognize Sally, Tony, and the teams at North Lumber & Home Center and Southern Iowa Building Center for their generosity and commitment to helping Decatur County grow.”
Senate29 September 2026Source ↗

“Madam President, as chair of the Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, each week I recognize an outstanding Iowa small business that exemplifies the American entrepreneurial spirit. This week, it is my privilege to recognize Ludlow's Steakhouse of Wayne County, IA, as the Senate Small Business of the Week.”
Senate29 September 2026Source ↗

“For Heidi, the Bread Board remains deeply rooted in family. Growing up next door to her grandparents, some of her fondest childhood memories came from baking alongside her grandmother. The original bread board Heidi used with her grandmother remains in the shop today. Heidi's own family has also become an important part of Bread Board.”
Senate28 September 2026Source ↗

“More than 120 years after Joe Piper first opened his grocery store, Piper's continues to bring together history, entrepreneurship, and community. Jill and her team have preserved the traditions that made Piper's a Chariton institution while adapting the business to serve a new generation of customers.”
Senate28 September 2026Source ↗

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“I know times are hard, but send money anyway. Lindseygraham.com. He did that all the time, and he was always so funny. And I can't tell you how many times I have watched that video, over and over again, and just laughed. He was certainly a very funny man, even when times were difficult, but behind the jokes was one of the most serious and effective legislators this body has ever known. He didn't care whose name was on a bill if the policy was right. He brokered friendships and alliances that many in this town said were no longer possible. He fought hard, and then he would sit down and crack a joke with the people that he had just been arguing with. All of us here on this floor know that Lindsey was always moving. The man never stood still.”
Senate14 July 2026Source ↗
“Earlier this year, we were talking about Lindsey, doing dinner with Lindsey, as many of us did, and we were talking about this year's race because he was running for another term in the Senate. And my mother, again, being very close to Lindsey and his No. 1 fan in Iowa--in fact, she had a screen saver on her computer. It was her and Lindsey Graham. If you asked my mother who her favorite Senator was, it wouldn't be Senator Chuck Grassley or even her own daughter; it would be Senator Lindsey Graham. She was agonizing: Should I send Lindsey a donation for his campaign? And I was laughing about this with Lindsey. So he was like: Give me your phone. He said: Let's shoot a video for your mom. And so he took my phone, and he made this cute little 10-second video. And it went something like this: Marilyn, we love you. We love Joni.”
Senate14 July 2026Source ↗
“Lindsey was really dear to my family. My mother's birthday was just a few days before Lindsey's, and through the years, he would call her on her birthday and wish her the happiest of birthdays. As my daughter entered the U.S. Army, he would call her and just give her words of encouragement--in the hilarious way that only Lindsey Graham could. He was such a good and decent man. One thing we all knew about Lindsey was his great sense of humor. I will never forget the gift he gave me after I won Iowa's Senate seat. In fact, I may be the only Senator in history to be handed a mounted castration clamp with a plaque engraved ``Make `Em Squeal, Joni!'' just off the floor of this Chamber, courtesy of Lindsey Graham. And I think he is probably still laughing about that one.”
Senate14 July 2026Source ↗
“Mr. President, I rise today with a heavy heart to honor my dear friend and colleague Senator Lindsey Graham of South Carolina. Before he ever set foot on this floor, he wore the uniform of the U.S. Air Force, serving 33 years between the Air Force, the South Carolina Air National Guard, and the Air Force Reserve. That service and his upbringing in the back of his parents' South Carolina bar shaped everything about how he approached his work here in the Senate. He understood, in a way too few in Washington, DC, do, what it costs to defend freedom. He was one of the loudest, most persistent voices this institution has seen on the importance of American leadership in this world. And before I joined the Senate, Lindsey was one of my earliest supporters. I am so grateful for his mentorship and his friendship throughout the years.”
Senate14 July 2026Source ↗
“The establishment is also a longstanding member of the Oelwein Chamber and Area Development, OCAD. Over the past three decades, the Manske family has continued to better Oelwein and Iowa through their innovative approach to their business. It is my pleasure to recognize Paul, Linda, Byron, and Travis Manske at Corner Market & Greenhouse for their enduring commitment to Fayette County. I look forward to their ongoing success and wish them the very best in the years ahead. ____________________”
Senate13 July 2026Source ↗
“Mr. President, as chair of the Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, each week I recognize an outstanding Iowa small business that exemplifies the American entrepreneurial spirit. This week, it is my privilege to honor Corner Market & Greenhouse of Fayette County, IA, as the Senate Small Business of the Week. Founded in 1994 by Paul and Linda Manske, Corner Market & Greenhouse was established to provide families in Oelwein with a community-focused store to meet every gardening need.”
Senate13 July 2026Source ↗
“Gronen's commitment to excellence has earned national and industry recognition, including the Tony Goldman Award, the J. Timothy Anderson Award, and recognition from the International Federation for the Roofing Trade. These honors reflect the company's leadership in historic preservation, community revitalization, and innovative redevelopment. I am pleased to recognize John and Mary Gronen, along with the entire Gronen team, for their dedication to Dubuque and Iowa. I look forward to their continued success and wish them the very best in the years ahead. ____________________”
Senate18 June 2026Source ↗
“Sammy is a member of the Benton County Farm Bureau Board and is set to assume the role of president in July 2025. This fall, Bloomsbury Farm looks forward to celebrating its 30th anniversary. The entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to excellence demonstrated by Bloomsbury Farm are clear. I want to congratulate the Petersens and the entire team at Bloomsbury Farm for their hard work and dedication to enriching their community and providing exceptional products and experiences to families across Iowa and beyond. I look forward to seeing their continued growth and success. ____________________”
Senate29 April 2025Source ↗
“Mr. President, as chair of the Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, each week I recognize an outstanding Iowa small business that exemplifies the American entrepreneurial spirit. This week, it is my privilege to recognize Bloomsbury Farm of Atkins, IA, as the Senate Small Business of the Week. In 1995, Karen and Dave Petersen opened Bloomsbury Farm on their 2,000 acres, which has been in Dave's family since 1856.”
Senate29 April 2025Source ↗
“Additionally, each spring, the Ochiltrees treat more than 700 students throughout the Wilton elementary and junior high schools to an ice cream day where students across the county can learn about Wilton and the Candy Kitchen's rich history while enjoying free ice cream. In June, the Wilton Candy Kitchen will proudly celebrate its 115th anniversary this year. The entrepreneurial spirit and community commitment shown by the Candy Kitchen is clear. I want to congratulate Lynn and Brenda Ochiltree, the Nopoulos, and all who have helped preserve this slice of Americana. I look forward to seeing their continued growth and success for generations to come. ____________________”
Senate28 April 2025Source ↗
“Mr. President, as chair of the Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, each week I recognize an outstanding Iowa small business that exemplifies the American entrepreneurial spirit. This week, it is my privilege to recognize Wilton Candy Kitchen of Wilton, IA, as the Senate Small Business of the Week. After attending Iowa's Wilton Fair, Gus Nopoulos and his friend inquired about renting the recently closed confectionery that still housed a soda fountain and its original fixtures.”
Senate28 April 2025Source ↗
“The dealership regularly hosts fundraisers like Ford Drive 4 UR School and participates in community associations, including the Charles City Chamber of Commerce, the Charles City Area Development Corporation, and the Charles City Lions Club. In 2023, CarGurus named Mike Molstead Motors a Top-Rated Dealer and awarded the dealership with their third Customer First Award for Excellence. In 2021, TIME Magazine named Mike as a top five national finalist for the TIME Dealer of the Year award. The entrepreneurial drive and commitment to community demonstrated by Mike Molstead Motors is clear. As they celebrate their 30th anniversary this year, I want to congratulate the Molstead family and the entire team at Mike Molstead Motors for their hard work and leadership in both business and service.”
Senate28 April 2025Source ↗
“Mr. President, as chair of the Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, each week I recognize an outstanding Iowa small business that exemplifies the American entrepreneurial spirit. This week, it is my privilege to recognize Mike Molstead Motors of Charles City, IA, as the Senate Small Business of the Week. In 1982, while attending the University of Northern Iowa and playing football, Mike Molstead began selling cars at a local dealership in Cedar Falls, IA.”
Senate28 April 2025Source ↗
“I want to congratulate Sara and Matt Ricke, their family, and the entire team for their hard work and dedication to providing an exceptional venue for families across Iowa. I look forward to seeing their continued growth and success. ____________________”
Senate7 April 2025Source ↗
“With decades of law enforcement experience and having served as Acting Attorney General, Matt has successfully collaborated across many organizations and jurisdictions. He understands the evolving threats our Nation and our allies face from terrorism to cyber warfare to transnational crime. His experiences navigating complex security challenges will make him an asset to NATO and a force for strengthening our alliances. Matt Whitaker is a principled leader with a proven track record. Under President Trump's peace-through-strength approach, I have no doubt that Matt will be an effective advocate for America's interests and a champion of our national strategy. I urge my colleagues to support his nomination. He is the right leader at the right time for this critical role. I yield to the gentleman from Idaho.”
Senate31 March 2025Source ↗
“Madam President, today, I rise in support of the confirmation of Matt Whitaker to serve as the next U.S. Ambassador to NATO. Matt is not only a proud Iowan, he is a dedicated public servant, an accomplished leader, a loving father, and a very, very, dear friend. Matt has honorably served our State and our country as the U.S. attorney for the Southern District of Iowa in private practice and most recently as the former Acting Attorney General of the United States.”
Senate31 March 2025Source ↗
“Mr. President, as chair of the Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, each week I recognize an outstanding Iowa small business that exemplifies the American entrepreneurial spirit. This week, it is my privilege to recognize J&S Farm Supply of Williamsburg, IA, as the Senate Small Business of the Week. In 1955, Leighton Jones founded Jones Fertilizer with a mission to support local growers by providing farming services including shelling corn, filling silos, and making hay.”
Senate31 March 2025Source ↗
“I urge my colleagues to vote no on this amendment. We can't afford the Washington business as usual that gave us $36 trillion of debt.”
Senate14 March 2025Source ↗
“Madam President, as chair of the Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, each week I recognize an outstanding Iowa small business that exemplifies the American entrepreneurial spirit. This week, it is my privilege to recognize The Brick Kitchen of Independence, IA, as the Senate Small Business of the Week. In 2021, husband and wife Nate and Shelly Whited founded The Brick Kitchen in Independence, IA.”
Senate12 March 2025Source ↗
“Mr. President, as chair of the Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, each week I recognize an outstanding Iowa small business that exemplifies the American entrepreneurial spirit. This week, it is my privilege to recognize Plantpeddler of Cresco, IA, as the Senate Small Business of the Week. On June 28, 1980, newlyweds Mike and Rachel Gooder purchased Cresco Greenhouse, a local, century-old greenhouse that they planned to revitalize.”
Senate5 March 2025Source ↗
“Mr. President, as chair of the Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, each week I recognize an outstanding Iowa small business that exemplifies the American entrepreneurial spirit. This week, it is my privilege to recognize Sweetheart Bakery and Homer's Deli of Clinton, IA, as the Senate Small Business of the Week.”
Senate19 February 2025Source ↗
“Mr. President, I ask unanimous consent that the previously rescheduled vote begin immediately.”
Senate19 February 2025Source ↗
“Mr. President, I ask unanimous consent that the order for the quorum call be rescinded.”
Senate19 February 2025Source ↗
“She recognized this should never happen again. SBA's vital role in the disaster process cannot be overstated, and we must ensure we have an Administrator who will alert Congress at the first signs of any concerns. The SBA needs a strong leader with a proven track record in business management, and Senator Loeffler brings all of that and more to the table. I look forward to working with Senator Loeffler to ensure small businesses all across America can thrive and maintain these high levels of optimism we are already seeing under this administration. I urge my colleagues to advance her nomination and support her with a ``yes'' vote. I yield the floor. I suggest the absence of a quorum.”
Senate13 February 2025Source ↗
“Madam President, as chair of the Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, each week I recognize an outstanding Iowa small business that exemplifies the American entrepreneurial spirit. This week, it is my privilege to recognize BHFO of Cedar Rapids, IA, as the Senate Small Business of the Week. In 2003, Jon and Stacie Sefton founded BHFO in the basement of their home in Cedar Rapids.”
Senate11 February 2025Source ↗
“Madam President, as chair of the Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, each week I recognize an outstanding Iowa small business that exemplifies the American entrepreneurial spirit. This week, it is my privilege to recognize World's Window of Cedar Falls, IA, as the Senate Small Business of the Week. In 1982, Vonna Yoder founded World's Window to educate the Cedar Valley community about fair trade business practices and to support artisans worldwide.”
Senate4 February 2025Source ↗
“Mr. President, as chair of the Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, each week I recognize an outstanding Iowa small business that exemplifies the American entrepreneurial spirit. This week, it is my privilege to recognize Myers Tree Farm of Sperry, IA, as the Senate Small Business of the Week. In 1987, Robert and Patti Myers planted the first group of Christmas trees on an acre of land in hopes to sell them and help pay for their children's college education.”
Senate27 January 2025Source ↗
“Mr. President, as chair of the Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, each week I recognize an outstanding Iowa small business that exemplifies the American entrepreneurial spirit. This week, it is my privilege to recognize Jones Dairy of Milford, IA, as the Senate Small Business of the Week. In 1903, Minor Jones and his wife Emma opened Jones Dairy when they rented 160 acres of farmland in Milford, IA. The family raised a variety of crops and livestock, ranging from cattle and pigs to corn and soybeans.”
Senate21 January 2025Source ↗
“I ask for the yeas and nays.”
Senate20 January 2025Source ↗
“We must pass the Laken Riley Act and Sarah's Law to send this message loud and clear for Sarah's family, for Laken's family, and for the countless American families that this action would protect. I yield the floor.”
Senate15 January 2025Source ↗
“Madam President, as chair of the Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, each week I recognize an outstanding Iowa small business that exemplifies the American entrepreneurial spirit. This week, it is my privilege to recognize Boomerang Corporation of Anamosa, IA, as the Senate Small Business of the Week. In 1998, Bryce Ricklefs opened Ricklefs Excavating to support construction projects throughout the Anamosa community.”
Senate14 January 2025Source ↗
“Madam President, as chair of the Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, each week I recognize an outstanding Iowa small business that exemplifies the American entrepreneurial spirit. This week, it is my privilege to recognize the Original Saw Company of Britt, IA, as the Senate Small Business of the Week. In 1990, Robert and Laurie Eden started the Original Saw Company. After purchasing Jones Machinery Company, the couple moved the business from Des Moines to Britt in 1989.”
Senate8 January 2025Source ↗

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