Iowa Starting Line readers respond to the news for Sept. 1, 2026
Readers write to Iowa Starting Line by emailing responses@iowastartingline.com, or replying to any email from us. We include the letters with first name and last initial (or your email handle), and your city if it is included. We reserve the right to shorten and proofread as needed.
Where are the MAGA hats?
“I am currently visiting Iowa this month from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and I recently had the opportunity to attend two major events in Des Moines: the Iowa State Fair and the World Music and Food Festival.
Given Iowa’s reputation as a traditionally red state, I was quite surprised that I did not see a single red MAGA hat at either event, despite looking closely. I am curious about your thoughts on this observation. Could this indicate a potential shift in the local political climate, or might there be another reason for the absence of these hats at these specific gatherings?” — Sandy D. [NOTE: What do you all think? Have you noticed an absence of MAGA hats?]
Gas prices the same?
“Let’s discuss affordability. I hear this at the forefront of every political commercial. Gas, groceries, etc. But I think it’s highly disingenuous to complain about high costs now when AAA reported the average cost of a gallon of gasoline in August 2022 is exactly the same as it is today even with the Iran War.
So my question is this…why isn’t Iowa Starting Line being honest about prices and inflation in general when they were even higher under the previous administration? Why are these facts kept out of the discussion?
I’m a moderate who is sick and tired of having both parties feed us what their focus groups tell them are the issues. The real issue this country is facing is our runaway national debt and the $1 Trillion in interest we made last year on that debt.
Are you journalists, or just advocates for a political position??? We deserve better from you.” — Jeff T., Urbandale
[NOTE: It is correct that the highest average regular unleaded gasoline price reached $5.01 in June of 2022, per AAA, which was during President Biden’s term. The cause: Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Prices also ended the year much lower. Meanwhile, gas prices today are on track to “likely” set a new record for August, again per AAA. The cause: President Trump’s war with Iran and the resulting Iranian blockade of the Strait of Hormuz. Prices are continuing to stay high, even with the summer travel spike ending.
People are genuinely worried, and repeatedly tell us so, about high prices of groceries, gas, and more, which makes it all the more worse that it’s an own goal. As far as the national debt, we all know who’s responsible for this.]
Voting info:
“Can you tell us all the names of Republicans that Iowans will be voting for this November and what position they are seeking and who their opponents are?” — Penny J. [NOTE: I don’t know about ALL, but you can at least find information about the federal and state races, plus all the information you need to vote, in our new Voter Guide!]
Can he really run for office while living in Kansas?
“I am confused as to what the laws are around running for office in IA. And what exactly is (Zach) Lahn’s residency situation. Obviously, the Lahn team is running a legal campaign, but how is it that a non-resident can run for office in IA? Additionally, how dumb do the Republicans think we are here in Iowa? The local candidate can’t get past the primary and their best option is a non-citizen? It seems like a disservice to Iowans.
I think it’s absolutely ridiculous that the Lahn campaign is talking about Rob Sand being a billionaire and complaining about costs when Trump’s policies are to blame and Lahn is a billionaire himself. He talks about Iowa 1st, but not when it comes to where to live and where to run your business from. Iowa seems last for Lahn. He doesn’t contibute to Iowa’s tax base. I could use an explanation to help this make sense to me.” — Bryce M.
[NOTE: We think ISL’s Zachary Oren Smith breaks it all down nicely here. The bottom line: It’s legal because he is claiming residency. Whether or not he’s a full-time Iowan who “truly” lives here and cares about the state is up to voters to decide.]
Hinson and the Epstein files:
“I don’t understand. Why is this an issue since Hinson did sign the petition? Is the Relay of 2 months important?” — David V.
Working the polls:
“I am signed up for training and to work the polls on Nov. 3rd. I’ve been doing this work since I retired from my full time position at Iowa State. Absolutely love it and am praying that we won’t have any interference from ICE this November.” — Clare L.
Taking our survey:
“This was not one of your choices, but honesty and fact based journalism is the most important.” — Deb F.
“No offense, but I participated in your political poll and included my phone number. I was assured my # would not be sold or shared. I don’t find it a small coincidence that as soon as I submitted the poll, I received a phone call from one of the political parties. That upset me, so I have unsubscribed as I don’t feel I can trust you. Just wanted you to know why.” — Anne C.
“How does the gift card get sent? Is it a gift card to a specific store? Is it something sent per email and then scanned?” — Mary B. [NOTE: Lucas Survey will provide that information to you if you elect to fill out future surveys.]
Welcome email not very welcoming to Dubuquers:
“But not even one ice cream shop from Dubuque.” — J. Bedford [NOTE: Maybe not in Sean’s article, but Bliss got some love in this one!]
