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Sen. Joni Ernst cautions against negative presidential campaign

Republican Senator Joni Ernst, from Iowa, hopes the campaign season’s war of words can instead become a battle about issues.

As campaigning heats up in South Carolina, Republicans are turning recent debates into a free-for-all and making foes out of friends.

"The World Trade Center came down during the reign of George Bush," said Donald Trump, accompanied by a chorus of boos.

"There's more than a little irony in Donald Trump accusing anyone of being nasty," said Sen. Ted Cruz at another event.

"This is just nuts," added Ohio Gov. John Kasich.

Sen. Joni Ernst, (R) Iowa, hopes that this war of words can instead become a battle about issues.

"We may see more of that," she cautioned.  "I hope they're able to get away from that and really talk about the policies.  What's behind the candidates, and where do they stand on the issues that are important to Americans."

The record-setting Iowa Caucus should enhance the Hawkeye state's first-in-the-nation status.

During an interview Thursday at WQAD News Eight, she praised tremendous turnout and up-close campaigning.

She likes the local events that represent how Republicans are feeling.

"Dissatisfaction with what's going on at the federal level, and the fact that we need a strong leader in the White House," she continued.  "That's what Iowans are looking for."

The new Supreme Court vacancy is fast becoming a campaign issue.

Sen. Ernst says that President Obama will likely make a nomination.

She leaves the door open if a confirmation will come before or after his term ends.

"We will be looking for a justice that will uphold the Constitution," she said.  "President Obama's track record with the Constitution has been a little in question as of late."

Sen. Ernst isn't supporting a presidential candidate just yet, but she says she will back the Republican nominee.

"I'm just hopeful we will come together in the end," she concluded.

From bitter battles to crowded caucuses, the 2016 campaign continues.

 

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