RED OAK, Iowa (KMTV) — Sen. Joni Ernst announced this week she will not seek a third term in the U.S. Senate, ending speculation about her political future and leaving her Montgomery County neighbors with mixed emotions about her decision.

WATCH KATRINA'S STORY BELOW Joni Ernst Won't Seek Third Senate Term - Iowa Neighbors React

The two-term Iowa Republican made the announcement Tuesday, citing family obligations as a reason for stepping away from the Senate.

"Having been raised in a family who has given me so much love and support, now, as our family ages and grows, it's my time for me to give back to them," Ernst said in a video statement.

In Montgomery County, where Ernst grew up and began her political career as the county auditor, residents know her simply as "Joni."

Montgomer

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