Democrats have a couple of decent to excellent candidates running, but this is a rare race where the incumbent hanging things up almost certainly works against Democrats. Ernst's likely replacement has a great electoral track record and raises lots of money.
Updated 2026-02-18
Multiple Democrats competing
Will Zach Wahls be the Democratic nominee for Senate in Iowa?
Data from Polymarket prediction markets
Ernst retiring; strong GOP recruit expected
Will Ashley Hinson be the Republican nominee for Senate in Iowa?
Data from Polymarket prediction markets
Iowa vs. National · Pop. 3.2M
US Senate in Iowa(Class I)