Ernst 'Roast & Ride' Aug. 27 in Des Moines

A second annual "Roast and Ride" fundraising event for Republican U.S. Sen. Joni Ernst will be held Aug. 27 at the Iowa State Fairgrounds in Des Moines, organizers announced Wednesday.

The first Roast and Ride was held last June in Boone, attracting seven Republican presidential candidates who dined on sliced pork and baked beans and gave speeches espousing conservative principles to about 1,500 people. Hundreds of motorcyclists arrived at the event on motorcycles with Ernst aboard a Harley-Davidson as she led a pack of about 300 from Des Moines. Former Texas Gov. Rick Perry led another group of about 70 motorcyclists from the Hotel Pattee in Perry.

No special guests were announced Wednesday for this year's event, but organizers said more details will be released as the date approaches. Tickets are not available yet.

The announcement Wednesday was made by the The Jobs, Opportunity and New Ideas PAC.

Organizers said this year's fundraiser will feature family-friendly activities, entertainment, an opportunity to rally in support of the Republican presidential nominee, hear from Republican leaders, and show support for the candidates and officials in Iowa. The ride will begin at Big Barn Harley-Davidson in Des Moines

“The Roast and Ride is a fun, family-friendly event, where we can celebrate the best of Iowa and hear from folks about a better way forward for our nation.” Ernst said in a news release. “For too long, many leaders in Washington have failed to live up to the promises made. In 2016 we must retain a conservative majority in Congress and nominate a Republican who will defeat Hillary Clinton or Bernie Sanders. We need leaders who will listen to the voters and work to get things done in Washington; from destroying ISIS to cutting the out-of-control spending. I’m looking forward to visiting with Iowans and talking about these ideas and more at the second annual Roast and Ride this summer.”