From Des Moines to Washington, D.C., Republicans were rocked last night by growing speculation that Iowa Sen. Joni Ernst would soon announce her retirement next year.

Asked about the rumors, Senate Majority Leader John Thune, R-S.D., told reporters in the U.S. Capitol last night: “I’m doing everything I can to encourage her to run for reelection.”

Ernst’s office said she has so far not made any decision about running for reelection. But, as was widely reported, the Hawkeye State lawmaker has so far only about $1 million — a small amount for a well-known incumbent — in her campaign coffers.

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