DES MOINES, Iowa -- Republican Party of Iowa Chairman Jeff Kaufmann released the following statement declaring Sen. Joni Ernst the winner of tonight’s U.S. Senate debate:

“Sen. Joni Ernst has put Iowans first since day one, and she has the record to prove it. Whether it’s implementing free and fair trade deals like the USCMA, cutting taxes for hardworking families, or securing E-15 year-round and fighting relentlessly for our agriculture and ethanol industries, Sen. Ernst has never wavered in her commitment to standing up for Iowa.

“Her liberal opponent, Theresa Greenfield, is the handpicked candidate of Chuck Schumer and is being bankrolled by the radical Left. Given the chance, Greenfield and her out-of-touch liberal allies would work to abolish the second amendment, allow late-term abortions, raise taxes and regulate our farms into oblivion. With Iowa set to begin casting ballots next week, it's now more clear than ever that Joni Ernst, the first female combat veteran to serve in the U.S. Senate, is the only candidate in this race Iowans can trust to fight for them."

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