Ernst, an Iowa Republican, is one of the most influential voices in Congress on military topics. Ethics and military experts say her relationships with top Air Force and Navy officials created potential conflicts of interest.

Earlier this year, the Air Force revealed that the general who oversaw its lobbying before Congress had inappropriate romantic relationships with five women, including three who worked on Capitol Hill.

Ethics and military experts say her relationships with top Air Force and Navy officials created potential conflicts of interest.

One of the most influential voices in Congress on military topics has potential conflicts of interest, experts say.