The MeidasTouch Podcast Summary Episode: Iowa State Senator Zach Walz Announces US Senate Run Release Date: June 11, 2025

Introduction

In this episode of The MeidasTouch Podcast, hosts Ben, Brett, and Jordy Meiselas delve into the current political climate in Iowa, focusing on recent controversies involving Republican Senator Joni Ernst and the emergence of State Senator Zach Walz as a contender for the U.S. Senate seat. The discussion is marked by the brothers' signature blend of insightful analysis and engaging banter, providing listeners with a comprehensive understanding of the political shifts occurring in Iowa.

Controversy Surrounding Senator Joni Ernst

The episode begins with Ben highlighting the significance of Iowa in national elections, emphasizing its role as a bellwether state that can indicate broader political trends. He references recent backlash against Senator Joni Ernst, a MAGA Republican, due to her contentious remarks about healthcare and social welfare.

Ben [00:00]: "I think Iowa as it's been in elections, there's a reason why it's at the start, you know, could be a bellwether..."

Ben plays a clip of Ernst where she ominously states:

Joni Ernst [00:49]: "So we people are not. Well, we all are going to die."

He critiques her lack of compassion and insensitivity, which has sparked significant voter outrage.

Ben [00:58]: "People in Iowa are pissed... there's no compassion in her statement whatsoever."

Further illustrating the negative reaction, Ben shares another clip where a voter expresses disgust at Ernst's comments.

Joni Ernst [01:27]: "It was rude and it was very uncouth, and there was no compassion in her statement whatsoever."

Ernst attempts an apology, which Ben and the voters find insufficient and insincere.

Joni Ernst [01:41]: "I apologize."

Ben summarizes the mounting frustration among Iowans, portraying Ernst's actions as disconnected from the electorate's needs.

Voter Sentiment and Dissatisfaction

The conversation shifts to personal stories from Iowans affected by Ernst's policies. VA Nurse Pat Kearns shares the personal impact of potential Medicaid cuts.

Patrick Kearns [02:26]: "She was saying to me, she doesn't care if my kids Die."

Ben juxtaposes this with Congressman Ashley Hinson's aggressive promotion of President Trump's agenda, which further alienates moderate voters.

Zach Walz [04:17]: "Joni Ernst, who's apparently her plan is just wait for all of us to die. She's not solving those problems and we need someone who will."

Announcement of Zach Walz's Senate Run

Amidst the criticism of Senator Ernst, Ben introduces State Senator Zach Walz, who announces his candidacy for the U.S. Senate.

Zach Walz [04:17]: "I'm running for the United States Senate because Iowans are working hard but aren't getting ahead."

Walz articulates the common concerns among Iowans, including economic struggles, healthcare uncertainties, and infrastructure decay.

Zach Walz [04:51]: "We're literally seeing our roads and our bridges crumble... we're 48th in personal income, we're 49th in state GDP."

He criticizes Ernst's focus on party politics over constituent needs.

Zach Walz [07:03]: "Joni Ernst has become so consumed by internal party politics, she's totally lost touch."

Zach Walz's Platform and Commitment

Walz emphasizes his commitment to addressing practical issues facing Iowans, distancing himself from the extremities of current partisan politics.

Zach Walz [10:14]: "What they want is someone who's going to stand up to the administration... who will always put Iowa first."

He shares personal anecdotes about constituents struggling with economic instability, corporate consolidation, and rising costs, underscoring his dedication to representing their interests.

Zach Walz [10:14]: "Candy... her community just got bought by another out-of-state company and she's worried about her lot rent going up."

Conclusion

The episode concludes with Walz encouraging listeners to support his campaign and stay informed through his website and social platforms.

Zach Walz [11:40]: "If they want to learn more, they can go to ZachWalz.com... and I hope they'll consider sending a little bit of money our way."

Ben reinforces the significance of Walz's announcement as a pivotal moment for Iowa's political landscape.

Ben [12:01]: "Walls, the big announcement here on the Midas Touch YouTube channel. He's running for the United States Senate seat in Iowa. Thanks, Zach."

Key Takeaways

• Senator Joni Ernst's Controversial Remarks: Ernst's insensitive comments about mortality and welfare have sparked widespread backlash among Iowans, highlighting a disconnect between her statements and voter sentiments.

• Emergence of Zach Walz: In response to dissatisfaction with Ernst's leadership, State Senator Zach Walz has declared his candidacy for the U.S. Senate, positioning himself as a candidate focused on practical issues and constituent needs.

• Voter Concerns: Economic instability, healthcare access, rising living costs, and deteriorating infrastructure are primary concerns driving Iowans to seek change in their representation.

• Political Shift in Iowa: The episode underscores a potential shift away from traditional partisan politics towards candidates who prioritize local issues and pragmatic solutions.

Notable Quotes

• Joni Ernst on Mortality:

  “So we people are not. Well, we all are going to die.” [00:49]

• Pat Kearns on Medicaid Cuts:

  “She was saying to me, she doesn't care if my kids Die.” [02:37]

• Zach Walz on Iowa's Economic Struggles:

  “We're 48th in personal income, we're 49th in state GDP.” [04:51]

• Zach Walz Critiquing Ernst:

  “Joni Ernst is all squeal, no bacon.” [07:03]

• Zach Walz on Constituent Needs:

  “What they want is someone who's going to stand up to the administration... who will always put Iowa first.” [10:14]

Final Thoughts

This episode of The MeidasTouch Podcast offers a critical examination of the current political dynamics in Iowa, spotlighting the challenges facing incumbent Senator Joni Ernst and presenting Zach Walz as a viable alternative. The Meiselas brothers effectively communicate the voters' frustrations and aspirations, providing listeners with a clear understanding of the stakes involved in the upcoming Senate race.