New ad: Schumer-linked group targets Ernst

A group linked to Senate Democrats' top super PAC is putting $200,000 behind an online ad campaign that launches today against Sen. Joni Ernst (R-Iowa), featuring her viral "we all are going to die" quote on Medicaid.

• In response to questions during a May town hall about Medicaid cuts in the "big, beautiful bill," Ernst argued the program would protect the most vulnerable, but also told voters "well, we all are going to die."

Why it matters: It's an early and expensive buy that could be the first shot in an uphill battle to defeat an incumbent senator in a solidly red state.

• But Democrats are looking to expand the map in 2026 and will try to use the next few months to test drive messages and soften up potential targets.
• "We're going to ensure she has to answer for not just her asinine and callous comments but for her continued support of policies that do nothing to lower costs for Iowans," Senate Majority PAC spokesperson Lauren French said in a statement.

Ernst spokesperson Palmer Brigham told us in a statement: "While Democrats fearmonger against strengthening the integrity of Medicaid, Senator Ernst is focused on improving the lives of all Iowans."

— Stef Kight

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