The Gazette offers audio versions of articles using Instaread. Some words may be mispronounced.

Our world would be a better place if Iowa U.S. Sen. Joni Ernst had followed her instincts, steeled her spine and told the MAGA legions to drop dead.

Ernst, you may recall, had misgivings about the appointment of former Fox News personality and tight suit aficionado Pet Hegseth for secretary of defense.

Yes, I know, “secretary of war.” Does it come with an action figure?

Ernst was the first female combat veteran elected to the Senate. Hegseth made no secret of the fact he doesn’t think women belong in combat.

Ernst is a survivor of sexual assault. Accusations of sexual misconduct swirled around Hegseth like ice in a highball. He insisted the allegations are not true.

Hegseth was a decorated

See Full Page