–One of the two Republicans looking to replace Joni Ernst in the United States Senate was in Algona Saturday to take part in the North Iowa Republican Round-Up. Former State Senator Jim Carlin of Sioux City announced his candidacy in June of 2025, prior to Ernst’s decision to not seek a third term. During an interview with KLGA News prior to Saturday’s event, Carlin noted his campaign centers on meeting with Iowans face-to-face.
Carlin will faceoff against Congresswoman Ashley Hinson, who announced her candidacy shortly after Ernst made it known she would not seek reelection, in the June 2nd primary.
Showing up to events like the one Saturday that was organized by Republican leaders in six area counties is something Carlin says he thrives on while despite his opponent’s absence.
Carlin says he will continue to circle the state over the next six weeks to try and emphasize how he could best serve Iowans in Washington DC.
This is the first time since 1968 that Iowa has had an open US Senate seat and an open race for Governor in the same election cycle.
