Known for her independent leadership and commitment to public service, Senator Ernst previously served as the Montgomery County Auditor and was the local commissioner of elections. As a state senator, Joni fought to balance the state budget and helped turn Iowa’s budget deficit into a $1 billion surplus. In November 2014, Joni was elected as the first woman to serve in federal elected office from the State of Iowa and also became the first female combat veteran elected to serve in the U.S. Senate.

After graduating from Iowa State, Joni joined the Army Reserves. In 2003, she served as a company commander in Kuwait and Iraq. Joni retired as a Lieutenant Colonel in the Iowa Army National Guard after 23 years of service.