State Newsmakers
-
Opinion: How Rob Sand flipped two key advantages Republicans held in Iowa
Iowa Starting Line founder Pat Rynard breaks down how Rob Sand spent years taking two of Iowa Republicans’ biggest political advantages away from them — and why that is pivotal in his race for governor. Five years ago, I invited Iowa’s top Democratic leaders and candidates to a presentation to raise the alarm on the…
-
Ashley Hinson, Iowa GOP accepted donations from megadonor accused in 2019 sex trafficking sting
Billionaire John W. Childs is back to seeding Republican campaigns with large checks after his 2019 solicitation charges related to a sex trafficking sting were dropped. Records show his deep pockets are helping Iowa’s Congressional delegation as they prepare for the 2026 midterms. [Update: After publication, a reader pointed out that John Childs of Vero…
-
Animal sanctuaries in Iowa: 6 spots for a close-up look at some of Iowa’s coolest critters
From rescued farm animals to prairie-roaming bison, explore the best animal sanctuaries in Iowa. Here are 6 must-visit spots to add to your list!
-
8 Iowa flower festivals worth driving across the state for
Bask in beautiful blooms at these flower festivals happening across Iowa this spring and summer.
-
What to know about Iowa’s only pay-it-forward café
One Iowa eatery is doing more than simply serving food. Discover how the state’s only pay-it-forward cafe is creating a community—and keeping it fed.
-
7 times labor unions made history in Iowa
The labor movement in Iowa has a rich history of struggles, solidarity, and hard-won victories. Here are seven of the most notable events.
-
Trump’s cuts to Medicaid threaten services that help disabled people live at home
Leisa and Kent Walker recently received a disturbing notice: The private company managing their son’s Medicaid coverage intends to cut nearly 40% of what it spends for caregivers who help him live at home instead of in a nursing home.
-
11 best spring & summer festivals in Iowa in 2026
The best festivals in Iowa this spring and summer range from food-centric events to those that support marginalized voices. Here are 11 you won’t want to miss.
-
10 women-owned businesses to support in Cedar Rapids
From a French bakery to a pet spa to a plant shop, discover Cedar Rapids’ top women-owned businesses.
-
Water watchers to sue Trump administration over polluted Iowa rivers
A coalition of clean water advocates has announced its intention to sue the Environmental Protection Agency over its handling of polluted rivers, lakes and streams in Iowa.
