Washington County emergency personnel met with a U.S. Senator Tuesday. At the Washington County Sheriff’s Office, Senator Joni Ernst (R ) met with Washington County emergency communications staff and emergency management personnel. Ernst said she was visiting to recognize the important work their departments do, “I appreciate you. A lot has changed since I was in that seat. I think the pressure on everyone is infinitely greater this day in age, so, thank you very much. I appreciate the great comments. A lot of great work you guys do. Folks just don’t see you out and and about and don’t understand what you guys do, but you are essential for our communities and every day activities.”

Ernst was elected to the Senate in 2014, the first woman in Iowa to hold the seat.