- The Washington Times - Thursday, October 30, 2014

It is not surprising that Condoleezza Rice has taken a shine to Joni Ernst. The former Secretary of State has endorsed the Republican hopeful for the U.S. Senate seat in Iowa - who also is a lieutenant colonel in the Army National Guard with some significant experience. She served as a company commander during Operation Iraqi Freedom, overseeing convoys through Kuwait and into southern Iraq throughout 2003, and her political philosophy remains in the can-do realm.

“We need leaders who know that America can’t lead from behind, because when you’re behind others, you’re really just following,” Mrs. Ernst says.

So no wonder she has an adamant new fan.

“Joni Ernst has dedicated her life to the service of others, bravely leading troops in Iraq and safely bringing them home to Iowa. Now Iowans have an opportunity to make her the first female combat veteran to ever serve in the U.S. Senate,” says Ms. Rice. “We need more leaders, like Joni, who understand America’s role abroad and the threats posed against us.”

Mrs. Ernst has also made John Bolton’s list of “national security” candidates who support a strong national defense and a feisty global profile. The former UN ambassador admires her “true Iowa values” and has already endorsed her, and contributed $10,000 to her campaign via his political action committee.

“Joni understands what it takes to lead and ensure that American values are represented at home and abroad,” Mr. Bolton says.

• Jennifer Harper can be reached at jharper@washingtontimes.com.

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