Rep. Ashley Hinson, the Iowa Republican Senate candidate, expressed concerns about the ongoing U.S. conflict with Iran potentially becoming a political issue if it continues beyond a few weeks. In audio obtained by CBS News from a May 28 campaign event in Fort Dodge, Iowa, Hinson discussed the situation.
“I do hope we can get this done by the next couple of weeks,” Hinson stated in the recording. “If it drags on beyond that, it’s a political liability for us too. Because we’ve lost Iowa soldiers.”
Hinson highlighted the loss of Iowa service members as a primary concern, recounting her attendance at four funerals since December. She deferred to President Trump and his team regarding the timeline for the conflict, as they seek to negotiate further ceasefire terms with Iran and discuss Iran’s nuclear program.
“Obviously I was deferring to the President on the negotiations, because he has the team doing it,” Hinson remarked, emphasizing her priority of preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons. “Iran cannot have a nuclear weapon. At the end of the day, that’s what I want to say on that.”
Addressing the topic of a potential military draft, Hinson noted she had no information suggesting plans for its implementation. Early in the conflict, the White House had asserted that a draft was not intended. “We don’t need one,” said Hinson. “I hope we don’t need one.”
Despite the duration and potential political ramifications of the conflict, Hinson noted the determination of the families of the fallen Iowa soldiers. “Those families all said we need to finish the job,” she shared. “Even in their grief.”
The November election will see Hinson competing against Democratic nominee Josh Turek for the Senate seat being vacated by Republican Sen. Joni Ernst. The contest is crucial in determining Senate control in 2026.
A spokesperson for Hinson conveyed in a statement to CBS News: “Of course endless wars are unpopular—no one wants them and thankfully President Trump is doing everything he can to prevent one while keeping Americans safe.”