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·11d

Iowa Politics Heat Up: J.D. Scholten and India May Challenge Joni Ernst Amid Medicaid Controversy

Iowa Rep. J.D. Scholten and newcomer India May enter the political fray, challenging Sen. Joni Ernst after her controversial Medicaid comments.


Overview

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Iowa state Rep. J.D. Scholten has announced his candidacy for the U.S. Senate, spurred by Sen. Joni Ernst's controversial remarks on Medicaid cuts during a town hall. Scholten's entry signals a growing Democratic challenge ahead of the 2026 elections. Meanwhile, India May, a 33-year-old Democrat from Charles City, is running for the Iowa House after gaining attention for shouting, "people will die!" at Ernst during the same town hall. Ernst defended her comments, emphasizing the need for Medicaid reforms, while her sarcastic apology video has drawn further criticism, intensifying the political landscape in Iowa.

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Analysis

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The article critiques Senator Joni Ernst's response to constituents regarding government cuts.

It highlights the absurdity and insensitivity of her remarks.

The tone reflects a broader disillusionment with detached political leaders.

Articles (7)

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The Blaze
Democrat announces run against Ernst after her 'We're all going to die' comments
ABC NewsABC News·13d·
Center
This outlet is balanced or reflects centrist views.

"…Ernst faced a number of agitated constituents at a town hall on Friday who expressed concerns that Republican cuts to Medicaid in the bill that would fund Trump's legislative agenda."

Iowa state lawmaker enters US Senate race after Ernst retort on Medicaid cuts
ABC NewsABC News·13d·
Center
This outlet is balanced or reflects centrist views.

"…Scholten, from northwest Iowa, was first elected to the statehouse in 2023 after twice losing congressional races in Iowa’s reliably conservative 4th Congressional District."

Sen. Joni Ernst defends her "we all are going to die" comments: "I'm very compassionate"
CBS NewsCBS News·13d·
Center
This outlet is balanced or reflects centrist views.

"…Ernst's now-viral musings on mortality came during a contentious town hall meeting Friday, as attendees grilled the senator about a GOP-backed domestic policy bill that passed the House last month."

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History

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  • 13d
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    4 articles