J.D. Scholten, a state representative who is also a minor-league baseball pitcher, said he had felt compelled to take on Senator Joni Ernst, a Republican, after her defense of Medicaid cuts.

Sen. Joni Ernst drew a high-profile opponent after telling a constituent concerned about potential Medicaid cuts, “We’re all going to die.”

Joni Ernst (R-IA) following her controversial remarks at a recent town hall. Ernst sparked outrage when she flippantly responded, "We're all going to die," to constituents voicing concerns over proposed Medicaid cuts.