Statement by Joni Ernst in Response to Braley Surrogate Questioning Her Patriotism

Press Release

While visiting eastern Iowa earlier today, Congressman Bruce Braley's campaign surrogate, Sen. Tim Kaine (D-Virginia), appeared to question Joni's patriotism. In remarks published by the Quad City Times, Senator Kaine accused Joni Ernst, who is a 22-year combat veteran and current Lt. Colonel in the Iowa Army National Guard, of insufficiently supporting the U.S. military, reiterating that she was "talking us down."

Here is a response from Joni Ernst:

"I have proudly worn our nation's uniform for over 22 years and am deeply disturbed that a politician from Washington would come to Iowa to question my patriotism," Joni said. "Congressman Braley and Sen. Kaine owe an apology to every Iowan who has worn this nation's uniform. While Congressman Braley disagrees with my belief that President Obama has failed to effectively respond to the Ebola crisis, he should be able to do so without questioning my patriotism. These sort of personal, negative attacks have no place in a serious election about our nation's direction but unfortunately out of desperation, Congressman Braley feels the need to continue to run the most negative campaign in Iowa history."

Source