In this episode of ITR Live, Chris Hagenow and John Hendrickson cover a wide-ranging discussion —from Iowa’s economic development subsidies to escalating foreign tensions. The show opens with a nod to Abraham Lincoln (in bust form) and an editorial comment on questionable taxpayer-funded art installations near ITR’s headquarters.
The episode shifts to foreign policy, where the hosts weigh in on the U.S. airstrikes against Iranian nuclear facilities and the surprising ceasefire that followed. Chris and John explore President Trump’s foreign policy identity—highlighting his balance between non-interventionism and strength projection—and the larger conservative debate over military action and national interest.
Returning to Iowa, the conversation zeroes in on three recent state economic development awards, questioning whether taxpayer incentives actually create new growth or simply reward companies that would expand anyway. The hosts break down subsidies for projects in central Iowa, and ask whether property tax burdens are being made worse by carving out special deals for large employers while small businesses struggle.
They close by highlighting a story from Iowa’s gubernatorial race: Democratic frontrunner Rob Sand’s public stance against men in women’s sports, a move that’s creating friction with his party’s progressive base. As John notes, the left’s inability to engage in honest debate on this issue contrasts sharply with conservatives’ internal discussions on foreign policy, spending, and taxes.
