Politics

Iowa Sen. Joni Ernst Withdraws Herself From VP Consideration

(REUTERS/Gary Cameron)

Alex Pappas Political Reporter
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Iowa Republican Sen. Joni Ernst seemed to withdraw herself from consideration as Donald Trump’s running mate on Wednesday.

The freshman senator, who recently met with Trump, informed the presumptive Republican nominee that she still has a “a lot more to do in the United States Senate,” she told Politico.

“I made that very clear to him that I’m focused on Iowa,” Ernst said. “I feel that I have a lot more to do in the United States Senate. And Iowa is where my heart is.”

Ernst added: “I’m just getting started here. I have a great partner with Chuck Grassley, we’ve been able to accomplish a lot. And I think that President Trump will need some great assistance in the United States Senate and I can provide that.”

On Tuesday, Trump tweeted: “It was great spending time with @joniernst yesterday. She has done a fantastic job for the people of Iowa and U.S. Will see her again!”

On Wednesday, another Republican, Tennessee Sen. Bob Corker, said he didn’t want to be considered for VP.

Those thought to still be under consideration include House Speaker Newt Gingrich, New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie, Alabama Sen. Jeff Sessions and Indiana Gov. Mike Pence.

Read The Daily Caller’s recent analysis of Trump’s potential running mates.

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Alex Pappas