Hegseth's Defense Secretary Bid Sparks GOP Debate Amid Ernst's Re-election

TL;DR Summary
Senator Joni Ernst faces potential intraparty challenges in Iowa as she considers supporting Pete Hegseth for defense secretary, a decision that could impact her 2026 re-election bid. While Ernst remains popular among many Republicans, grassroots conservatives express frustration over her perceived lack of full support for Trump's agenda. The situation highlights the pressures on GOP members to align with Trump's picks, with some activists threatening primary challenges against those who don't. Despite the tensions, Ernst's allies argue that the backlash is exaggerated and primarily online-driven.
- Sen. Joni Ernst's re-election looms as she weighs Pete Hegseth's bid for defense secretary NBC News
- Video: How Hegseth Salvaged His Secretary of Defense Nomination The New York Times
- Column | Trump may be moving GOP senators on Hegseth, but he’s not swaying Americans The Washington Post
- Republicans defend Ernst ahead of Hegseth vote POLITICO
- Opinion | Vets Recognize Hegseth as One of Their Own The Wall Street Journal
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