About Joni

Senator Joni Ernst, native of Red Oak, Iowa, has dedicated her life to her state and country, having served
in the military for over 23 years and now representing Iowans in the United States Senate. Joni is working
to grow a strong economy; stand up for Iowa farmers, families, and small businesses; hold Washington
accountable, ensure a strong national defense, and support our veterans.

Born: July 1, 1970 in Red Oak

Residence: Red Oak, Iowa

Committees: Armed Services; Agriculture, Nutrition and Forestry;
Small Business and Entrepreneurship (Ranking Member); Republican Policy Committee (Chairman)

Education: Iowa State University (B.A.), Columbus State University (M.PA.) Early
Life

Born and raised on a farm in Montgomery County, Joni’s parents instilled in her the values important to
Iowans: hard work, service, and sacrifice. After gradua.ng top of her class at Stanton High School, Joni
went on to Iowa State University where she joined the university’s ROTC program.

Military Career
After graduating from Iowa State, Joni joined the U.S. Army Reserves. In 2003, she served as a company
commander in Kuwait and Iraq, leading 150 Iowa Army National Guardsmen during Operation Iraqi
Freedom. Joni retired as a Lieutenant Colonel in the Iowa Army National Guard after 23 years of military
service.

Public Service

Known for her independent leadership and commitment to public service, Joni previously served as the
Montgomery County Auditor where she worked to eliminate wasteful government spending and protect
taxpayers’ hard-earned dollars, and was the local commissioner of elections. As a state senator, Joni
fought to balance the state budget and helped turn Iowa’s $900 million 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 United States
Senate.

Family Life

Joni still lives in Red Oak, not far from the family farm where she grew up, and near her family. Her
daughter Libby is a second lieutenant in the U.S. Army