Sen. Joni Ernst Faces Ethical Scrutiny Over Military Relationships

Senator Joni Ernst has come under scrutiny following an investigation revealing her alleged romantic involvement with retired Maj. Gen. Christopher Finerty, who was demoted for inappropriate relationships while overseeing Air Force lobbying efforts in Congress. The investigation highlighted concerns over potential conflicts of interest, as Ernst, a key figure on the Senate Armed Services Committee, may have been influenced by her relationship with Finerty, described as a de facto lobbyist for the Air Force. Additionally, sources indicated that Ernst had a previous relationship with a Navy legislative affairs official, raising further ethical concerns. While Senate rules do not prohibit such relationships, ethics experts warn they can create significant conflicts of interest. Ernst's office has dismissed the allegations as