Special Edition: Reporter’s Notebook

A closer look at the people, records, and political histories shaping Iowa’s 2026 races.

Last week in our Reporter’s Notebook series, you met Zach and got a closer look at the issues at the center of Iowa’s election season—and how one of his stories came together. (You can catch up here.)

Prefer the video version? Zach also broke it down on camera: Why Ashley Hinson waited two months to sign a petition to release the Epstein files, and what FEC records show about the $30,500 she received from billionaires named in them.

Before our next edition hits your inbox, send us your questions—about the election, our reporting, or what you want our Iowa team to dig into next.

There are 65 days until Election Day, Iowa.

Are you ready to vote?

Ashley Hinson refused for two months to sign the petition releasing the Epstein files. FEC records show $30,500 arrived from billionaires named in those files while she held out.

Wherever you like to scroll, we’ve got you covered:

Thanks for reading.

Iowa Starting Line is free for everyone. Your support makes our work possible.