Shows
KHOI's Capitol WeekSo many Iowa candidate announcementsLaura Belin and Spencer Dirks had loads of 2026 campaign news to discuss. Rob Sand (D) launched his campaign for governor, Randy Feenstra (R) took the first step toward running for governor, Jennifer Konfrst (D) launched her campaign for Congress in the third district, her primary rival Sarah Trone Garriott (D) launched her first digital ad, Ryan Melton (D) is running for Congress in the fourth district, Nate Willems (D) is running for attorney general, and Chris Cournoyer (R) is running for state auditor. Other topics covered: Sand warns of the state's "fiscal time bomb," the USDA approved Governor Kim...2025-05-1329 min
Iowa Down BallotIowa Down Ballot with Dave Price 5/10/25Starting off this week we have some fun personal experiences with pets during interviews, updates on the overtime legislative session and budget negotiations, and discussions about education funding and budget cuts. The group also addressed political maneuvering within the Senate regarding eminent domain restrictions (after multiple caucuses on Friday, the Senate didn’t debate eminent domain). Finally, they discussed recent political announcements and potential candidates for upcoming elections (we had a slew of announcements this week and could get quite a few more in the coming weeks including the one that may be most awaited Rob Sand). The gang cl...2025-05-1029 minKHOI's Capitol WeekDem running in IA-03; Republicans at odds over budget, property rightsLaura Belin and Spencer Dirks began with campaign news: State Senator Sarah Trone Garriott was the first Democrat to announce in Iowa's third Congressional district, two Republicans ruled out the 2026 governor's race, and the outcome of an Iowa House special election. Other topics covered: Republican drama over the state budget and eminent domain hanging up the legislative session; Bayer's efforts to revive the pesticide immunity bill; new state laws on cell phones in schools, National Guard scholarships, nuisance actions, birth centers, and "accessory dwelling units"; and the House Government Oversight Committee grilling State Auditor Rob Sand and seeking confidential...2025-05-0629 minKHOI's Capitol WeekGovernor's office sues DM Register; new possible candidates for governor, auditorLaura Belin and Spencer Dirks begin with the legal battle brewing over the Iowa governor's ability to shield documents from public view. On the same day, the governor's office sued the Des Moines Register, and the ACLU of Iowa sued the governor's office. In both cases, the governor claims records can be withheld because of "executive privilege." Other topics covered include an update on a lawsuit Iowa joined last year related to disability protections, new candidate filings for governor and state auditor, town hall meetings featuring Senator Chuck Grassley and Representative Ashley Hinson, and comments from Grassley and Senator...2025-04-2929 minKHOI's Capitol WeekBousselot exploring governor's race; new candidates for U.S. Senate and HouseLaura Belin and Spencer Dirks started with news from the 2026 campaign trail: GOP State Senator Mike Bousselot is exploring a gubernatorial campaign, Democrat Nathan Sage is running for U.S. Senate, and Kevin Techau and Travis Terrell are running for U.S. House. They also discussed what makes a credible candidate for federal or statewide office, and 1Q fundraising by Iowa's members of Congress. Other topics covered: tough votes coming for the Congressional delegation, another tense town hall for Senator Chuck Grassley, Governor Kim Reynolds seeking a waiver for Medicaid work requirements, notable bills signed into law, and legislative...2025-04-2229 minKHOI's Capitol WeekFallout from a Kim Reynolds bombshell, Dems target IA-02Laura Belin and Spencer Dirks cover the biggest Iowa political news stories, starting with fallout from Governor Kim Reynolds' announcement that she won't seek a third term: potential Republican and Democratic candidates, impact on the next elections for governor and down-ballot offices, and reasons for Reynolds' relatively low approval rating. Meanwhile, Democrats plan to target Iowa's second Congressional district and have nominated a candidate for an upcoming special Iowa House election. Laura and Spencer also discussed the Iowa legislature's work on school funding, other education policies, election laws, cancer, property taxes, the minimum age to carry handguns, and a...2025-04-1529 minKHOI's Capitol WeekTariffs, trial balloons, and the Iowa legislature's second funnel weekLaura Belin and Spencer Dirks discussed Iowa reaction to President Donald Trump's sweeping tariffs and their likely impact on the state's agriculture sector. The U.S. Senate confirmed Matt Whitaker to the most senior role an Iowan has received in the second Trump administration. Also covered: more Democrats considering a 2026 bid for U.S. Senate, why Bernie Sanders' campaign has a staffer on the ground in Iowa, a special election coming for an Iowa House seat, the Iowa ties of Wisconsin's newest Supreme Court justice, the first meeting of Governor Kim Reynolds' DOGE task force, and news from the...2025-04-0829 min
Iowa Down BallotIowa Down Ballot with Dave Price 4/5/25* Three of the top political reporters in Iowa are back with a lot more to discuss this week. First off a grateful Dave thanks pinch-hitter Erin for sharing his office space in Des Moines and then we’re off to the races. Topics this week include; The impact of Trump’s tariffs, especially on the state of Iowa; Each of our panelists attended the legislative leadership avails (minus Governor Reynolds) on Thursday and give their top lines; A possible end to the bill that would have made it harder to sue producers of glyphosate (Roundup) for possible cancer links; Wher...2025-04-0533 minKHOI's Capitol WeekSchool book ban blocked, Iowa sheriff sued, Wahls vs. Ernst?Laura Belin and Spencer Dirks discuss the week's top Iowa politics stories, starting with U.S. District Court Judge Stephen Locher blocking enforcement of Iowa's school book ban. Other topics covered include Attorney General Brenna Bird's unprecedented lawsuit against a county sheriff, reaction from Senators Chuck Grassley and Joni Ernst to "Signalgate," and Democratic State Senator Zach Wahls as a potential challenger to Ernst in 2026. They also discussed Iowa legislative work in many areas: property tax reform, immunity for pesticide manufacturers, hands-free driving, the governor's energy bill (the Trump administration opposes one part of it), paid parental leave, Medicaid...2025-04-0129 minKHOI's Capitol WeekReynolds, Bird cheer Trump policies; Lawmakers take on education and DEILaura Belin and Spencer Dirks begin with Iowa angles on Trump administration news: Governor Kim Reynolds cheered the order dismantling the U.S. Department of Education, Senator Chuck Grassley dealt with angry crowds at his town halls, Rep. Mariannette Miller-Meeks stuck close to the president, Attorney General Brenna Bird backed efforts to deport alleged gang members, and Trump's DOJ dropped a legal challenge to an Iowa immigration law. Other topics covered: Iowa legislative action on numerous bills related to education and DEI, supervisor elections in Democratic-leaning counties, a ban on "smuggling," a last-minute hit on apprenticeship programs, a failed...2025-03-2529 minKHOI's Capitol WeekDems weigh Congressional campaigns, Walz in Iowa, news from the statehouseLaura Belin and Spencer Dirks review the week in Iowa politics, starting with the three Democrats taking a serious look at running for Congress in the third district, where GOP incumbent Zach Nunn is seen as vulnerable. Other topics covered: Minnesota Governor Tim Walz's "town hall" in that targeted district, a special election for an Iowa House seat, the legislature's failure to approve K-12 school funding levels, declining state revenues due to tax cuts, some legislative action related to health and the courts, the passing of a former Republican lawmaker who was passionately pro-choice, signs of Iowa's political realignment...2025-03-1829 minKHOI's Capitol WeekFunnel week surprises, bills still moving, a ProPublica exclusive on Joni ErnstLaura Belin and Spencer Dirks cover an exceptionally busy week in the Iowa legislature ahead of the first "funnel" deadline. They discussed new bills that popped up last week (not all of them advanced), and notable bills that are "alive" and "dead" in the areas of K-12 education, higher education, public libraries, energy policy, state government, health care, crime and courts, and elections. Other topics covered: a new job for former State Senator Brad Zaun, remembering Iowa Senate giant Jack Kibbie, a South Dakota law that spells trouble for Summit Carbon Solutions' CO2 pipeline n Iowa, and ProPublica's exclusive...2025-03-1129 minKHOI's Capitol WeekDigging deep on Iowa's new transgender discrimination lawLaura Belin and Spencer Dirks focused this week on the wide-ranging new Iowa law targeting transgender and nonbinary people. They discussed the key provisions, including some that have received little attention in other reporting. Laura described the atmosphere at the capitol, the House and Senate debates, last-minute maneuvering to secure House Republican support, the handful of Republicans who opposed removing gender identity protections from the civil rights code, when the law will take effect, and some oddities surrounding the way it was fast-tracked. She previewed the legal arguments each side will raise when the law is challenged in court...2025-03-0429 minKHOI's Capitol WeekAll about the trans discrimination bill; Sand & Reynolds spar on auditing voucher fundsLaura Belin and Spencer Dirks discuss the biggest news in Iowa politics, starting with an omnibus transgender discrimination bill that is on a fast track: what's in the bill, how it compares to earlier proposals, why Republicans are pushing this now, and what happens next. They also discussed bills moving forward related to abortion, higher education, legal immunity for pesticide manufacturers, and law enforcement cooperation with ICE. Other topics covered: conflict between State Auditor Rob Sand and Governor Kim Reynolds after state agencies blocked auditors from reviewing school voucher expenses, Reynolds' response to her potential primary challenger, Bernie Sanders...2025-02-2529 minKHOI's Capitol WeekSherman declares for governor; Iowa challenges anti-discrimination lawLaura Belin and Spencer Dirks start with 2026 election news: who is newly declared candidate Brad Sherman, and what are his chances in a Republican primary against Governor Kim Reynolds? Other topics covered: the candidates running in an Iowa House special election and legislative action related to school funding, other education policies, a pro-Israel resolution, hands-free driving, CO2 pipelines, frivolous lawsuits, and ticket bots. Laura and Spencer also dug into the Texas-based lawsuit the state of Iowa joined, which seeks to declare a longstanding federal anti-discrimination law unconstitutional and unenforceable. Finally, they discussed the recent federal court hearing on Iowa's 2023...2025-02-1829 minKHOI's Capitol WeekIowa DOGE, a GOP challenger for Miller-Meeks, and lots of legislative actionLaura Belin and Spencer Dirks discuss the week in Iowa politics, starting with Governor Kim Reynolds creating a new "Iowa DOGE" task force and testifying before the U.S. House Oversight Committee about government reorganization. Other topics covered: Iowa angles on Trump administration policies, cabinet appointees, and NIH grants, an Iowa House special election coming soon, a Republican primary challenger for U.S. Representative Mariannette Miller-Meeks, two Iowa politicians joining Trump's lawsuit against the Des Moines Register and its longtime pollster, a casino (probably) coming to Cedar Rapids, and legislative action on bills related to education, CO2 pipelines, immunity...2025-02-1129 minKHOI's Capitol WeekA surprising special election, lots of legislative news, Ernst speaks for GabbardLaura Belin and Spencer Dirks cover top stories from the week in Iowa politics, starting with Democrat Mike Zimmer's shocking victory in a state Senate district that just voted for Donald Trump by 21 points. They also covered the unexpected passing of State Representative Martin Graber and legislative action on many bills affecting higher education, K-12 schools, criminal justice, health care, protection against frivolous lawsuits, and transparency in government. Other topics covered: a possible effort to revoke transgender Iowans' civil rights protections, Senator Joni Ernst's public support for Tulsi Gabbard as Director of National Intelligence, and comments from members of...2025-02-0429 minKHOI's Capitol WeekNews about the 2026 governor's race, Iowa legislative happenings, and Steve KingLaura Belin and Spencer Dirks cover the the week in Iowa politics, starting with an appeals court ruling that kept a state immigration law blocked. They discussed Iowa angles on Trump administration news: Senate confirmations, inspector general firings, and January 6 pardons. Other topics covered: big fundraising numbers from the likely 2026 Democratic and Republican nominees for governor, a possible GOP primary challenger to Kim Reynolds, and a look at more than 15 bills moving forward in the Iowa House or Senate. Finally, the U.S. Supreme Court closed the door on a long-running lawsuit involving former U.S. Representative Steve King.2025-01-2829 minKHOI's Capitol WeekGovernor's wish list for state lawmakers, Ernst backs Hegseth, and moreLaura Belin and Spencer Dirks share their favorite Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. quotes and discuss lots of news from a busy week in Iowa politics, starting with Iowa angles on President Donald Trump's return to the White House. They dug into the many policies Governor Kim Reynolds is asking Iowa legislators to enact this year, some items on her wish list that didn't make it into her big speech, and what the Iowa Judicial Branch and Iowa National Guard want lawmakers to pass. Other topics covered: State Senator Mike Bousselot wants Iowa to buy the souther tier of...2025-01-2129 minKHOI's Capitol WeekKicking off the Iowa legislature's 2025 sessionLaura Belin and Spencer Dirks cover the start of the Iowa legislature's 2025 session from many angles: what happened on the opening day, highlights from remarks by majority and minority leaders, two new committees created in the Iowa House, important dates for the legislature's work, some key issues lawmakers may tackle, how Iowans can follow what's going on at the statehouse, the changing demographics of the Iowa House and Senate, and diversity among the members (including the first transgender lawmaker). Also covered: the end of a legal challenge to some voting restrictions enacted in 2021, and the latest news on Donald...2025-01-1429 minKHOI's Capitol WeekDems stick with Hart, GOP rival says Ernst sucks, Trump ally off U Iowa advisory boardLaura Belin and Spencer Dirks cover the biggest Iowa politics stories of the week, starting with the first actions of the new Congress. Other topics covered: candidates set for the Iowa Senate district 35 special election, a GOP rival's ad with a vulgar message about Senator Joni Ernst, Iowa Democratic Party state chair Rita Hart winning another term and outlining her plans, recent comments from Iowa GOP state chair Jeff Kaufmann, the state passing on the USDA's summer food assistance program for kids, Governor Kim Reynolds leaving the student position vacant on the Iowa Board of Regents, and Donald Trump "...2025-01-0729 minKHOI's Capitol WeekRemembering Jimmy Carter, a new job for Vilsack, and Iowa politics takeaways from 2024Laura Belin and Dennis Hart discuss President Jimmy Carter's legacy and how his 1976 campaign changed the Iowa caucuses. Other topics covered: former Governor Tom Vilsack's impending return to Iowa, President Biden's veto of a bill that would have added a permanent federal judge in Iowa, U.S. Representative Randy Feenstra's priorities for the next Congress, a possible spike in Iowans' health insurance premiums after 2025, a rise in homelessness and the city of Des Moines' controversial anti-camping ordinance, the long-term warming trend in Des Moines, and a Democratic candidate for an Iowa Senate special election. Laura and Dennis wrapped up...2024-12-3129 minKHOI's Capitol WeekTrump's Iowa Poll lawsuit; news from Congress; racial disparities and juvenile justiceLaura Belin and Spencer Dirks discuss the top Iowa politics stories from the week, starting with Donald Trump's lawsuit against the Des Moines Register and its longtime pollster, Ann Selzer. They also talked about how the Iowans voted on last-minute efforts to keep the federal government open and a Social Security bill, which divided the Iowa delegation in an unusual way. Other topics discussed: Iowa's prospects for keeping four Congressional districts, the first human case of bird flu announced, a date for the special election to replace Lieutenant Governor Chris Cournoyer, a controversy over a state audit of the...2024-12-2429 minKHOI's Capitol WeekMeet Iowa Lt. Gov. Chris Cournoyer, farewell to Jim LeachIowa finally has a new lieutenant governor. Laura Belin and Spencer Dirks talk about Chris Cournoyer's background and work in the Iowa Senate, what was and wasn't surprising about Governor Kim Reynolds' choice, political reaction to the new LG, and what the pick signals about the 2026 governor's race. Other topics covered: Reynolds backs using the National Guard to assist with deportations, pathogenic avian influenza detected in five Iowa counties, state revenue projected to drop, state officials cancel planned Satanic event at the capitol, Attorney General Brenna Bird comments on a state constitutional amendment and January 6 pardons, an FBI informant...2024-12-1729 minKHOI's Capitol WeekJoni Ernst in the hot seat, GOP primary challenger announcesLaura Belin and Spencer Dirks discuss the intense pressure campaign U.S. Senator Joni Ernst is facing from MAGA Republicans. Joshua Smith has announced plans to run against Ernst in the 2026 GOP primary, and conservative influencers have floated other possible challengers. Also covered: comments from other Iowa politicians about Trump's picks, fewer women elected to the Iowa legislature in 2024, more fallout from the Secretary of State's efforts to find "non-citizen" voters, and an award for Governor Kim Reynolds. 2024-12-1029 minKHOI's Capitol WeekMore Iowa election takeaways, reaction to Trump nominationsIowa's elections were certified on December 2, and Laura Belin and Spencer Dirks discuss the shift to Donald Trump, GOP gains in early voting, final results from the last races to be recounted, and the seven Iowa legislators elected in districts that voted the other way for president. Other topics discussed: counties with the highest and lowest turnout, dozens of ballots rejected, new leadership on some Iowa Senate committees, Senator Chuck Grassley on Trump's picks for FBI director and secretary of agriculture, Senator Joni Ernst floats spending cuts, and Governor Kim Reynolds names a former legislator (whom she helped defeat...2024-12-0329 minKHOI's Capitol WeekTwo recounts done, Ernst all in with DOGE, feds reject Iowa waiversIt's two recounts down and two to go in Iowa's very close 2024 elections. Laura Belin and Spencer Dirks discuss the state of play and how Republicans expanded their Iowa Senate majority to 35-15. Other topics covered: newsworthy changes to Iowa House committees, a new Iowa Senate Democratic leader, Senator Joni Ernst's bet on the Trump administration's DOGE effort, Matt Whitaker's nomination as U.S. ambassador to NATO, reaction to possible mass deportations, the USDA rejecting two waiver requests from Iowa, and a big drop in abortions performed shortly after Iowa's near-total ban took effect.2024-11-2629 minKHOI's Capitol WeekIowa recounts, early Trump picks, and Democratic woes in mid-sized citiesLaura Belin and Spencer Dirks discuss the four Iowa elections that are headed for recounts, how Senators Chuck Grassley and Joni Ernst will approach Donald Trump's controversial cabinet picks, and unsuccessful bids by Ernst and Mariannette Miller-Meeks for GOP leadership roles in the new Congress. Other topics discussed: challenged ballots in some counties, Ann Selzer's decision to stop polling elections, and Laura's reporting on Democratic losses in Iowa's mid-sized cities, which were solid blue territory for decades.2024-11-1929 min
Julie Gammack's Iowa PotluckYes, it was too soonWe had an open show Monday, and to my surprise, over 50 showed up for the Zoom call. I had no agenda or idea of how the conversation would unfold. Still, when I spotted Bill Sniffin, a former Iowan, who used to run newspapers in Wyoming, I called on him to start the conversation because he voted for Donald Trump.He’s the guy, Richard, my husband, apologized to Liz Cheney about when she appeared at Drake University last year, because he helped mentor Bill as a young reporter for an Iowa newspaper. Sniffin’s news organization did not...2024-11-131h 03KHOI's Capitol WeekThe real story on Iowa's 2024 electionsLaura Belin and Spencer Dirks explore many aspects of the latest red wave in Iowa, starting with Donald Trump's biggest win yet and the warning signs for Democrats. Also covered: what went wrong with Selzer's final Iowa Poll for the Des Moines Register, how Reps. Mariannette Miller-Meeks and Zach Nunn survived strong challenges in the first and third Congressional districts, future prospects for Rep. Ashley Hinson and Senator Joni Ernst, and notable results from the state legislative races—including which candidates outperformed their own party's presidential candidate.2024-11-1229 minKHOI's Capitol WeekRecap of another red wave election in IowaSix of the last eight general elections have been Republican landslides in Iowa. Laura Belin and Spencer Dirks recap the November 5 results: how Donald Trump improved on his past performance, the outcome in all four Congressional races, and the GOP gains in the Iowa House and Senate. Other topics covered: Iowa's new constitutional amendments, judicial retention votes, and what Senator Chuck Grassley plans to prioritize as chair of the Senate Judiciary Committee.2024-11-0629 minKHOI's Capitol WeekIowa election night specialLaura Belin and Spencer Dirks were on the air live from 10:00 pm to 10:30 pm Central to talk about the Iowa results so far. They will record another live show at noon Central on Wednesday, November 6. It's already clear that Donald Trump carried Iowa by a large margin, and Republicans will have net gains of Iowa House and Senate seats. 2024-11-0629 minKHOI's Capitol WeekA shocking Selzer poll; final preview of Iowa's electionsLaura Belin and Spencer Dirks discuss Ann Selzer's final Iowa Poll for the Des Moines Register, which shocked the political world. Other topics covered: a federal court ruling allowing the state to proceed with a last-minute effort to find non-citizens on the voter rolls, an update on Iowa's early vote numbers, recent news from the four Congressional campaigns, and Iowa House and Senate races to watch on November 5. Laura and Spencer will record two bonus episodes this week: a live show on election night and a first look at Iowa's election results on November 6.2024-11-0529 minKHOI's Capitol WeekLast-minute Iowa voter challenges, an IA-01 debate, and moreLaura Belin and Dr. Bob Leonard discuss the Iowa Secretary of State's last-minute directive telling county auditors to challenge ballots from "self-reported" non-citizens. (Some people on the secret list are in fact naturalized citizens.) Meanwhile, the ACLU of Iowa warned about mass challenges to voter registrations in some counties. Other topics covered include early voting numbers, the only debate between the first Congressional district contenders, a Republican candidate who didn't follow his own ticket-splitting advice, and some Iowa Senate races to watch.2024-10-2929 minKHOI's Capitol WeekPerry school shooting findings, Iowa campaign news roundupLaura Belin and Spencer Dirks discuss findings from the investigation into the deadly mass shooting at Perry High School in January. Other topics covered: early voting numbers so far, Congressional candidate fundraising, news from the toss-up races in Iowa's first and third districts, details on the Davenport residence of Representative Mariannette Miller-Meeks, the second Congressional district debate, how Iowa Supreme Court Justice David May has decided big cases, projections of declining state revenues, and new court filings in lawsuits challenging Iowa's school book ban and "don't say gay or trans" law.2024-10-2229 min
Julie Gammack's Iowa PotluckA save-the-date announcementSave the date! As a thank-you to our paid subscribers and donors, The Iowa Writers’ Collaborative and Iowa Capital Dispatch team will host a holiday party from 5-8 p.m. in the spacious lobby of the Tom and Ruth Harkin Institute, 2800 University Avenue, Des Moines—appetizers by the Drake Catering department. The date is December 13. It’s a state-of-the-art facility, and on December 13th, it will become a great place for us to gather, meet your favorite writers, and meet the readers who make it possible for us to do what we do. All paid subscr...2024-10-1658 minKHOI's Capitol WeekEarly voting, toss-up House races, and an Iowa angle on Indigenous Peoples' DayLaura Belin and Spencer Dirks cover the options and requirements for voting before election day, and how both major parties are pushing early GOTV. Other topics covered: a debate, a poll, and new TV ads in Iowa's two toss-up Congressional races; attorney ratings for judges up for retention on the November ballot; a challenge to federal nursing home staffing requirements; Iowa Supreme Court arguments in a CO2 pipeline case; how school vouchers are affecting public and private schools; and for Indigenous People's Day, a brief summary of the 1842 Sauk and Fox Treaty.2024-10-1529 minKHOI's Capitol WeekRatings, ads, and messages in Iowa's four U.S. House racesLaura Belin and Spencer Dirks dive into the state of play in Iowa's four U.S. House races: two toss-ups (the first and third Congressional districts), and two considered safe for Republicans (the second and fourth districts). They also share their VP debate takeaways and discuss Governor Kim Reynolds' search for a new lieutenant governor, recent trade mission to India, and opposition to legalizing marijuana. Other topics covered: Laura asked State Auditor Rob Sand about his timeline for announcing his 2026 plans, and the DOT rejected many local government requests for speed cameras.2024-10-0830 min
Julie Gammack's Iowa PotluckState Auditor Rob SandRob Sand is often considered a top 2026 Iowa gubernatorial race contender. Wait, you say? We are in the final stage of the 2024 election, and I’m already talking about 2026?! Yeah, Rob Sand had a bit of the same reaction when I coaxed him to talk about his future ambitions. Sand is currently the only Democratic officeholder in state government. He was our guest on Potluck’s Monday Zoom call podcast this week. Sand is probably better known than any previous Iowa Auditor, not only for his work but because of his command of soci...2024-10-0543 minKHOI's Capitol WeekIowa Congressional races in the spotlight, polling on state officialsLaura Belin and Spencer Dirks discuss the races in Iowa's first and third Congressional districts and Laura's exclusive reporting on how U.S. Rep. Mariannette Miller-Meeks has used official resources to boost her re-election prospects. Also covered: an Iowa National Guard deployment to North Carolina, Rep. Randy Feenstra's vote against funding the government, Sen. Chuck Grassley's comments on the Secret Service, approval ratings for Iowa's governor, auditor, and attorney general, appeals court arguments over Iowa's immigration law, a new DEI review at Iowa's state universities, and the first woman admitted to the bar in Iowa—and the United States.2024-10-0129 minKHOI's Capitol WeekMore Iowa Poll findings, Haley co-chair backs Harris, Scholten jersey at CooperstownLaura Belin and Spencer Dirks discussed new Iowa Poll findings on abortion, immigration, and the presidential and VP candidates. One of the co-chairs of Nikki Haley's Iowa caucus campaign became the first prominent Iowa Republican to endorse Kamala Harris. Other topics covered include: news from the competitive U.S. House races, concerns about slow mail delivery affecting Iowa voters, Iowa's senators opposing a bill to protect IVF, Laura's investigative reporting related to State Treasurer Roby Smith, a state audit on Iowa nursing home inspections, and why an Iowa lawmaker's jersey is now at the National Baseball Hall of Fame.2024-09-2429 minKHOI's Capitol WeekA surprising Iowa Poll; Congressional campaign intrigueLaura Belin and Spencer Dirks discuss the second apparent assassination attempt against former President Donald Trump and the first published Iowa Poll measuring support for Trump and Vice President Kamala Harris. Other topics covered: an Iowa Supreme Court ruling on Libertarians running for Congress, a shady effort to recruit pro-Trump candidates to split the vote in battleground U.S. House races, more questions about where U.S. Representative Mariannette Miller-Meeks lives, proposed constitutional amendments that will appear on Iowa's ballot, and four lawsuits challenging a state permit for a CO2 pipeline.2024-09-1729 minKHOI's Capitol WeekExit Adam Gregg, Iowa election news, and a Rob Sand town hallLaura Belin and Spencer Dirks discuss Lieutenant Governor Adam Gregg's surprising departure, the latest news on three Libertarian candidates' fight to get back on the ballot, and the Iowa GOP's planned early voting push. Also covered: Democratic groups are making a play for Iowa's first Congressional district, grants for new charter schools, State Auditor Rob Sand's recent town hall in Knoxville, a county attorney withholding the incident report on the mass shooting at Perry High School, and more Paralympic medals for Iowa athletes.2024-09-1029 minKHOI's Capitol WeekEarly voting preview, Iowa Libertarians fight for ballot access, AEAs losing staffLaura Belin and Spencer Dirks discuss what Iowans need to know (and need to bring with them) if they plan to vote early or on election day. Republicans on a state panel voted three Libertarian Congressional candidates off the ballot, setting up a court challenge on a tight timeline. Other topics covered: a seventh presidential candidate appeared on the Iowa ballot; a conservative Republican stood by his endorsement of Democrat Ryan Melton in IA-04; an independent candidate qualified for the ballot in IA-02, a state commission issued a permit for a controversial CO2 pipeline, and Democrats highlighted new data...2024-09-0329 minKHOI's Capitol WeekIowa angles at the DNC, latest Congressional and legislative campaign newsLaura Belin and Spencer Dirks discuss Democratic National Convention highlights and news with an Iowa angle, including the delegate who voted "present" instead of for Kamala Harris, and the OB/GYN who joined a panel discussion about abortion and rural health care. Other topics covered: the Republican who endorsed the Democratic candidate in IA-04, campaign developments in IA-03, more state legislative races to watch, a new state child care portal, and a South Dakota court ruling that could affect a CO2 pipeline project in Iowa.2024-08-2729 min
Iowa Down BallotMidweek of the DNC ConventionDave Price moderated our panel for Episode 4 of Iowa Down Ballot, where Iowa Writers’ Collaborative members discussed the Democratic National Convention and how it could impact Iowa political campaigns down-ballot. Included on the panel were Laura Belin , Dave Busiek, Robert Leonard, Julie Gammack, Robert Leonard, Art Cullen, and Kathie Obradovich, editor in chief of Iowa Capital Dispatch. Zachary Oren Smith is the podcast producer. Music intro by Dartanyan L. Brown .Panelists also referred to stories they have reported this week. Laura Belin has a story about the number of LG...2024-08-221h 00KHOI's Capitol WeekAbortion case ends, summer food fight begins; news on Iowa Congressional races, LGBTQ candidatesLaura Belin and Spencer Dirks discuss the end of a legal challenge to Iowa's near-total abortion ban, and Governor Kim Reynolds picking a fight with the U.S. Department of Agriculture over federal funds for feeding kids over the summer. Other topics discussed include the presidential tickets that will appear on Iowa's ballot, a new state policy on wheelchair repairs, Democratic spending on tv ads in two of Iowa's Congressional districts, the record number of LGBTQ people running for the Iowa legislature, and U.S. Representative Mariannette Miller-Meeks' support for CO2 pipelines and energy tax credits she voted against.2024-08-2029 minKHOI's Capitol WeekEnter Tim Walz, school book bans, and campaign ads on Iowa airwavesLaura Belin and Spencer Dirks cover Iowa reaction to Vice President Kamala Harris selecting Minnesota Governor Tim Walz as her running mate. Other topics discussed: recent developments in federal lawsuits challenging two state laws, tv ads for candidates in Iowa's first and third Congressional districts, Republican efforts to knock Libertarian candidates off the ballot, state waivers for hazardous work for teens, resources available to trans kids, Olympic athletes with Iowa ties, and J.D. Scholten's cap headed to Cooperstown.2024-08-1329 minKHOI's Capitol WeekNews from Congress, a potential Senate candidate, and Iowa angles on the OlympicsLaura Belin and Spencer Dirks cover the week in Iowa politics, starting with the the Harris/Trump race in Iowa and weekend fundraisers for Attorney General Brenna Bird and U.S. Representative Ashley Hinson. They also caught up on some Congressional action this summer and Senator Chuck Grassley's latest comments on Secret Service failures. Other topics covered include a Libertarian who may run for U.S. Senate in 2026, Olympic athletes with Iowa connections, GOP comments on the Olympic boxing controversy, and news about an Iowan who filed an important transgender rights lawsuit five years ago.2024-08-0629 min
Julie Gammack's Iowa PotluckFans flock to Justin RobertsJustin Roberts is beloved by children and their families, and is serious about reaching them through his trademark, whimsical musical style. This is a hometown-kid-made-good story. “He has a remarkable ability to see through a child’s eyes… the Judy Blume of kiddie rock.” The New York TimesReaders of this column were able to spend an hour with Justin on Monday, to learn how he evolved from a teenage rocker at Roosevelt High School, to a Montessori teacher in Minneapolis, and ultimately stumbling into a successful career delighting kiddos through his songs and perf...2024-08-0156 minKHOI's Capitol WeekAdapting to Iowa's abortion ban, Beshear rallies Dems, Libertarians fileLaura Belin and Spencer Dirks cover Iowa's top political news stories. They began with the near-total abortion ban now being enforced: details on the law's restrictions and vague exceptions, and how it will affect pregnant Iowans and health care providers. Other topics discussed include political reaction to the abortion ban, remarks by Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear and State Auditor Rob Sand at a big Democratic fundraiser, Libertarian candidates filing in three Iowa Congressional districts, the latest news related to Iowa's school voucher program, and Governor Kim Reynolds tapping American Rescue Plan funds for victim assistance programs.2024-07-3029 minKHOI's Capitol WeekFrom Biden to Harris; Bird, Reynolds, and Ernst at the RNCLaura Belin and Spencer Dirks discuss the top Iowa political stories from the week, starting with reaction to President Joe Biden's decision to stand down as the Democratic nominee and the possible impact on down-ballot races. Other topics discussed: Attorney General Brenna Bird's prime-time speech at the Republican National Convention, how a rift with team Trump could affect Senator Joni Ernst's future prospects, strong Democratic fundraising in two Iowa Congressional races, and the legal state of play surrounding Iowa's near-total abortion ban and a proposed carbon pipeline.2024-07-2329 minKHOI's Capitol WeekIowans at the RNC, state flood response, and a Rob Sand town hallLaura Belin and Spencer Dirks discuss the top Iowa political stories from the week, starting with reaction to the assassination attempt against Donald Trump in Pennsylvania. Also covered: Iowa GOP state chair Jeff Kaufmann formally nominated Trump at the Republican National Convention, two of Iowa's RNC delegates dissented from the platform plank on abortion, two Iowa Democrats called for Joe Biden to step aside as the presidential nominee, details on the state's comprehensive flood recovery effort, and an account of State Auditor Rob Sand's recent town hall meeting in Osceola. 2024-07-1629 minKHOI's Capitol WeekSurprise Iowa Senate resignation, new role for Iowan in CongressLaura Belin and Spencer Dirks discuss the abrupt departure of Iowa Senate Commerce Committee chair Waylon Brown, weeks after his hard-fought primary win. Other topics covered include a new leadership role for U.S. Representative Mariannette Miller-Meeks, a recap of some state laws that took effect this month, an update on flood cleanup in northwest Iowa, and State Representative J.D. Scholten stepping back on the mound.2024-07-0929 minKHOI's Capitol WeekAll about the Iowa Supreme Court's abortion rulingLaura Belin and Dennis Hart dig into the Iowa Supreme Court's most important ruling of the year and the fallout from the decision, which will allow the state to enforce a near-total abortion ban. Other topics covered include the Iowa Utilities Board's approval of a proposed carbon pipeline, the state's flood response, reaction to the first Joe Biden/Donald Trump debate, and Governor Kim Reynolds going to bat for small businesses fined for child labor violations. 2024-07-0229 minKHOI's Capitol WeekMajor floods, another new state law challenged, targeted Iowa legislative racesLaura Belin and Spencer Dirks lead with the state's response to massive flooding across northwest Iowa, in some areas surpassing 1993 levels. Other topics discussed: Attorney General Brenna Bird launches a cold case unit and joins another legal effort to help Donald Trump, beverage makers file federal lawsuit over Iowa law on hemp consumables, a national Democratic group targets seven Iowa House and Senate races, and notable findings from the latest Iowa Poll by Selzer & Co for the Des Moines Register and Mediacom.2024-06-2529 minKHOI's Capitol WeekImmigration law blocked; new Iowa poll and Congressional candidatesLaura Belin and Spencer Dirks start with news from the federal courts related to Iowa's Texas-like immigration law and last year's school book ban and "don't say gay/trans" teaching restrictions. Other topics discussed include a new Des Moines Register Iowa Poll on the presidential race, Libertarian candidates running in three of Iowa's Congressional districts, and surprising comments from U.S. Senator Joni Ernst about Donald Trump's stance toward Ukraine.2024-06-1829 minKHOI's Capitol WeekSizing up the Iowa primary results; state defends immigration law in courtLaura Belin and Spencer Dirks discuss the noteworthy results from Iowa's June 4 primary elections and what they mean for November's races for Congress and the Iowa legislature. Other topics discussed include the candidate who has a good chance of becoming Iowa's first transgender state lawmaker, and a federal court hearing on two lawsuits challenging a new immigration law, which makes "illegal re-entry" a state crime.2024-06-1129 minKHOI's Capitol WeekIowa pols react to Trump conviction; previewing June 4 primariesLaura Belin and Spencer Dirks discuss the Iowa political reaction to former President Donald Trump's conviction in New York City and preview more than a dozen noteworthy Republican or Democratic races ahead of the June 4 primary. Other topics covered include Attorney General Brenna Bird's reversal on reimbursing sexual assault victims for emergency contraception costs, and state policy on summer meals for kids who qualify for free or reduced-price school lunches.2024-06-0429 min
Julie Gammack's Iowa PotluckDid you know most Iowa counties have a quilt shop?To our new subscribers: I host a Monday Zoom call over the noon hour most weeks but usually take holidays off. After meeting Marianne Fons in Winterset recently, we decided we needed her to meet you BEFORE the upcoming Winterest Quilt Festival happening June 5-8, so she was our guest on Memorial Day. I didn’t expect a big turnout today because it’s a holiday and the weather is mostly beautiful. Turns out, there is a lot of interest in quilting, even among those of us who know nothing about the craft/art form. J. Ann Selz...2024-05-281h 01KHOI's Capitol WeekMany bill signings and one veto; more on Iowa AG's trip to NYCLaura Belin and Spencer Dirks discuss Governor Kim Reynolds' final bill signings for 2024 and the one bill she vetoed. Other topics covered include: new funding for charter schools and projects to combat the opioid epidemic, new information on Attorney General Brenna Bird's trip to attend Donald Trump's criminal trial, new research on how Iowa's school voucher policy affected private school tuition, and a look at the June 4 primaries in Iowa's U.S. House districts.2024-05-2129 minKHOI's Capitol WeekNew federal lawsuits, plus Iowa laws of special importance to mothersLaura Belin and George A. Clark discuss the two lawsuits filed to block Iowa's new immigration law, as well as the multi-state lawsuit the state joined to challenge the Biden administration's latest Title IX rule. Other topics covered include Attorney General Brenna Bird's surprise appearance at Donald Trump's criminal trial, new state laws that particularly affect mothers, and good news/bad news related to the heavy rain across Iowa this spring.2024-05-1429 minKHOI's Capitol WeekFeds to sue Iowa, more new laws, and state loses out on big grantLaura Belin and Mike Murphy discuss a role reversal, as the federal government is poised to sue Iowa over a new immigration law. (Attorney General Brenna Bird has joined numerous multi-state lawsuits challenging Biden administration policies.) Other topics covered include important bills Governor Kim Reynolds signed last week, Iowa's unsuccessful bid for a major federal grant, and a state Supreme Court ruling with a connection to Laura.2024-05-0729 minKHOI's Capitol WeekLegislative wrap-up and a look at Iowa Congressional racesLaura Belin talks with Mike Murphy about some policies added to budget bills in the final days of the Iowa legislature's 2024 session, as well as notable bills that didn't make it to the governor's desk. (Some may return next year.) Other topics covered include a look at fundraising in Iowa's four U.S. House races, and environmental groups petitioning the U.S. EPA to step in to protect Iowans' drinking water.2024-04-3029 minKHOI's Capitol WeekFarewell to the Iowa legislature's 2024 session—and to Dennis HartLaura Belin and Dennis Hart cover last week's happenings in the Iowa legislature, which adjourned for the year at 4:23 am on Saturday, April 20. They also discuss highlights from the 2024 legislative session and the latest news on a federal lawsuit over one of last year's major education laws. Finally, Laura and Dennis reminisce about their three-plus years working together, as Dennis steps back from co-hosting this show. Laura will be back on KHOI next Monday evening.2024-04-2329 minKHOI's Capitol WeekIowa Supreme Court hears abortion case; legislature enters home stretchLaura Belin and Dennis Hart discuss the Iowa Supreme Court's oral arguments on whether to allow the state to enforce a near-total abortion ban. The rest of the show focuses on legislative news: the state House or Senate gave final approval to a proposed constitutional amendment and bills on traffic cameras, arming school staff, food labeling, and more. Laura and Dennis also talked about some important bills Governor Kim Reynolds signed into law last week.2024-04-1629 min
Julie Gammack's Iowa PotluckRandy Evans, Iowa Freedom of Information CouncilThe picture above is not of the esteemed Randy Evans, executive director of the Iowa Freedom of Information Council, our special podcast guest in this episode. It is meant to portray a stereotype of secretive public officials who don’t want you, the taxpayer, to know things, like lawsuits filed against public officials or cost overruns on public expenditures. There’s a lot of stonewalling going on, more than ever, and this tiny nonprofit organization stands up tall to hold our ‘representative’ government accountable. Why does it matter? You have a right to know how taxpayer...2024-04-131h 02KHOI's Capitol WeekAbortion rules, an AEA "oversight," and lots of legislative actionLaura Belin and Dennis Hart discuss another busy week in the Iowa legislature, as the 2024 session moves into its final weeks. Topics discussed include administrative rules linked to Iowa's near-total abortion ban (which is still blocked by court order), House Republicans hoping to revisit funding for Area Education Agencies, and bills approved on hemp consumables, food labeling, immunity for pesticide manufacturers, postpartum Medicaid coverage, and more.2024-04-0929 minKHOI's Capitol WeekFinal AEA chapter and more Iowa legislative actionNo fake April Fool's stories here: Laura Belin and Dennis Hart deliver real news from the Iowa statehouse, marked by final action to overhaul Area Education Agencies and movement for proposals on eminent domain, a constitutional amendment on taxes, Gadsden flag license plates, and more. Also in the mix: a rare House Oversight Committee meeting, and State Auditor Rob Sand spars with Attorney General Brenna Bird.2024-04-0229 minKHOI's Capitol WeekAEA drama intensifies in the Iowa legislatureLaura Belin and Dennis Hart dig in on the biggest political story from last week: the state Senate and House passing competing versions of bills to overhaul Iowa's Area Education Agencies. The changes could impact tens of thousands of children, and the controversy has generated massive public interest. Laura and Dennis also discussed other notable legislative news, findings from the Iowa Poll for the Des Moines Register and Mediacom, and earmarks secured by Iowa's members of Congress.2024-03-2629 minKHOI's Capitol WeekSecond funnel week extravaganzaLaura Belin and Dennis Hart discuss some breaking news—the Iowa Senate approved a plan to overhaul Area Education Agencies—and that bill's prospects in the Iowa House. They spent most of the program sorting through the fallout from last week's "funnel" deadline for bills not related to taxes or spending. Which important proposals remain alive? Which ones appear to be out of contention? And what the heck is the "unfinished business" calendar, where leaders have parked dozens of bills that didn't make it through the second funnel?2024-03-1929 minKHOI's Capitol WeekA trio of rare events in the Iowa legislatureLaura Belin and Dennis Hart review the week in Iowa politics, including three very rare occurrences in the state legislature: one bill failed to gain a majority on the House floor, another was pulled in the middle of House debate, and a third (this one high-profile) was pulled from the Senate calendar with no explanation. Other topics covered include a slew of bills that did gain approval in the House or Senate, and notable findings from the latest Iowa Poll by Selzer & Co for the Des Moines Register and Mediacom.2024-03-1229 minKHOI's Capitol WeekLots of education bills, plus other Iowa legislative newsLaura Belin and Dennis Hart discuss another busy week in the legislature, including a half-dozen education-related bills approved in the Iowa House and other controversial measures passed mostly along party lines. Other topics discussed: the U.S. Supreme Court's ruling on Donald Trump's ballot access, an Eighth Circuit Court of Appeals decision related to Iowa's ban on school mask mandates, and U.S. Senator Chuck Grassley's defense of his role in publicizing allegations against the Biden family that turned out to be false.2024-03-0529 minKHOI's Capitol WeekIowa lawmakers act on gender balance, school funding, and moreLaura Belin and Dennis Hart discuss important bills approved by either the Iowa House or Senate during the first week of floor debate in both chambers. Other topics covered include a public hearing on the House Republican proposal to change Iowa's Area Education Agencies, an Iowa Supreme Court ruling related to a lawsuit challenging a 2021 election law, and the latest happenings in litigation over Iowa's near-total abortion ban (now blocked by court order).2024-02-2729 minKHOI's Capitol WeekFunnel week extravaganzaLaura Belin and Dennis Hart recap the Iowa legislature's extremely busy "funnel week," discussing a few dozen bills that either survived the first major deadline in the state House or Senate, or landed on the scrap heap. They also covered some of what the Iowans in Congress were up to last week.2024-02-2029 minKHOI's Capitol WeekIowa lawmakers on health care, gender, libraries...and raccoonsLaura Belin and Dennis Hart cover the latest news related to Donald Trump's legal entanglements, Iowa Congressional votes on foreign aid, and more than 20 bills advancing in the Iowa legislature ahead of a February 16 deadline. They also discussed Laura's exclusive reporting on Iowa State University's pricey new airplane.2024-02-1329 min
Julie Gammack's Iowa PotluckCharity Nebbe, UnsettledStarting today, I will acknowledge those who become new or renewed paid subscribers to support the Okoboji and Songwriters’ Retreat. If you are new to this space and are interested in learning more about this annual event or applying for a scholarship, check the FAQ page on this website: https://okobojiwritersretreat.com.Thanks to Deb Martin and Linda Beatty, our most recent paid subscribers, for helping us transform emerging writers. Charity Nebbe and her producers at Iowa Public Radio launched the podcast about and for women, Unsettled, in response to the ‘me too’ moveme...2024-02-1053 minKHOI's Capitol WeekGender Identity at the State HouseLaura Belin and Dennis Hart discuss the latest Iowa legislative happenings, including high drama surrounding bills on gender identity and Governor Kim Reynolds' proposal to overhaul Iowa's Area Education Agencies. Other topics covered include new tax cut plans, border politics, Iowa Congressional candidate fundraising, and the passing of former Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Bill Northey.2024-02-0629 min
Ellie 2.0 RadioEllie 2.0 Radio – February 3, 2024t’s a live show! Our featured idealist is Laura Belin, the curator of the Bleeding Heartland blog that covers Iowa politics. Laura and I talk about legislation introduced at the behest of Gov. Reynolds which seeks to require transgender people who’ve transitioned genders to list both an M and F on their driver’s license. Ugh. I also talk about a recent feel-good story by writer James Finn about a lesbian wedding venue in Kansas. Finally, I announce the formation of Carver County Pride—the first LGBTQ+ organization in Carver County MN!
2024-02-0442 minKHOI's Capitol WeekA new death penalty bill and other Iowa legislative newsLaura Belin and Dennis Hart discussed fifteen bills pending in the Iowa legislature, on topics including the death penalty, ballot access for presidential candidates, gender identity, health care access, education, and nursing homes. Also covered: Attorney General Brenna Bird's year of suing the Biden administration, and State Auditor Rob Sand's review of property taxes. Finally, Laura shared the news that the Iowa House agreed to give her credentials, days after she filed a federal lawsuit over previous denials.2024-01-3029 minKHOI's Capitol WeekFinal Iowa caucus thoughts, lots of legislative newsDennis Hart and Laura Belin analyzed the Iowa GOP caucus results, discussed abortion politics on the anniversary of Roe v Wade, and spent most of this episode on Iowa legislative news. Laura also explained why the Institute for Free Speech had recently filed a federal lawsuit on her behalf, over the Iowa House chief clerk's refusal to grant her press credentials.2024-01-2329 minKHOI's Capitol WeekIowa Caucus Special Live AdditionDennis Hart and Laura Belin recorded live early on January 16 to recap the results from the previous night's Iowa caucuses. They also discussed the early days of the Iowa legislature's 2024 session, including highlights from speeches by Governor Kim Reynolds and Chief Justice Susan Christensen. Rounding out the episode: federal court rulings on Iowa laws and some legislative campaign news.2024-01-1749 minKHOI's Capitol WeekLive on Iowa Caucus Night, plus some legislative newsDennis Hart and Laura Belin recorded live on January 15, as the Iowa caucuses were ongoing. Part of the episode covered the last week of presidential candidate visits, town halls, and debates. They also discussed the early days of the Iowa legislature's 2024 session and highlights from Governor Kim Reynolds' Condition of the State address.2024-01-1629 minKHOI's Capitol WeekIowa legislature back to work, one week to the caucusesLaura Belin and Dennis Hart recorded live on the first day of the Iowa legislature's 2024 session. They began by discussing the Perry High School tragedy of January 4, Iowa's deadliest school shooting. Since this show happened exactly one week before the Iowa caucuses, much of the episode covered news about the Republican presidential candidates.2024-01-0929 minKHOI's Capitol WeekA blockbuster federal court ruling to start the new yearLaura Belin and Dennis Hart recorded live on New Year's Day 2024. They started with a close look at a federal court order blocking Iowa from enforcing wide-ranging school book bans and restrictions on teaching about gender identity or sexual orientation in grades K-6. They also covered some presidential candidate visits to Iowa and previewed the new legislative session, set to begin on January 8.2024-01-0229 min
Julie Gammack's Iowa PotluckDave Busiek, a ConversationIn our conversation with retired television news leader, Dave Busiek, one of our participants was able to ask him why there was no local television coverage of the World Food Prize meeting even though leaders from around the world gathered in Des Moines to participate. Busiek had an answer at the 33:36 mark of the podcast. This conversation offers a fascinating look behind the scenes of a local television news broadcast. Plus, we get to know a bit about the personal interests of a news leader familiar to many within central Iowa. Subscribe to Dave’s co...2023-12-171h 01
The ProcessBleeding Heartland: Laura Belin's Community Blog About Iowa Politics@TheHeartlandPOD on Twitter and ThreadsCo-HostsAdam Sommer @Adam_Sommer85 (Twitter) @adam_sommer85 (Post)Rachel Parker @msraitchetp (Post) Sean Diller @SeanDillerCO (Twitter and Post)https://heartlandpod.com/JOIN PATREON FOR MORE - AND JOIN OUR SOCIAL NETWORK!“Change The Conversation”Belin found her love of politics growing up with parents and siblings who discussed current events at the dinner table. She has followed Iowa elections closely since the 1980 caucuses, when she took on the role of liberal Republican candidate John Anderson for a classroom debate. S...2023-11-2949 min
Julie Gammack's Iowa PotluckLaura Belin talks Iowa politicsDuring our Monday Zoom lunch session, Laura Belin had 40-50 participants on the call, where the day's appetite was for all things political. Belin is an Iowa Writers’ Collaborative member and the Bleeding Heartland blog publisher. Take a listen to one of the most thoughtful analysts around. Lee Rood will be our guest on Monday, November 20. She is an investigative reporter who created a reader Watchdog column for The Des Moines Register. She recently published a blockbuster series on abuse at Boys Town. https://pulitzercenter.org/stories/reports-sex-abuse-iconic-boys-town-youth-home-omaha-kept-secret-publicWe’ll discuss the series, other interests, and...2023-11-191h 00
Julie Gammack's Iowa PotluckPodcast: A candid conversation with RoxanneRoxanne. One word, one name, evokes a visceral reaction from all who know of the woman who has been a lightening rod for controversy, progress, justice and hilarity. In this podcast, a conversation between a few old friends, listeners can get a sense of why this is, and what drives one of the most iconic leaders in the state of Iowa, and beyond. Monday Zoom Guest: Nicole BaartWe are lucky to have as our Monday Zoom lunch guest, best-selling author of 11 books, mother of five and...2023-10-2257 min
Julie Gammack's Iowa PotluckHow we do things around here...Welcome to our new subscribers. Suppose this is the first column you’ve opened since subscribing. In that case, you might be surprised to find a podcast about how a former Des Moines businessman has discovered the personal benefits of combining tai chi and yoga to quell symptoms of Parkinson’s disease. Today’s posted podcast is an example of what we do around here. I regularly hold a Zoom conversation on Mondays, and 20-50 participants will join the call live. The podcast is then posted and receives 3-4,000 views. I didn’t get last week’s ‘...2023-10-0359 min
Julie Gammack's Iowa PotluckWini Moranville, Food WriterShe’s back. Wini Moranville, the popular writer about local food, once again tells readers about dining in Iowa, and readers are - shall I say? - eating it up. Her work has appeared in Better Homes and Gardens magazine publications, books, The Des Moines Register, and DSM magazine. She had a successful blog but says she’s found the best fit yet as an independent writer through Wini’s Food Stories in her Substack column: “You just write; if people want to see it, they will see it. And it's between me and t...2023-09-0259 min
Julie Gammack's Iowa PotluckThree things today:First, here is a link to our conversation with former WHO TV political director Dave Price. He recently left his position with the station - not an uncommon occurrence for a popular TV personality in a market the size of Des Moines. Rather than leave for a job in a larger metro area, Price is opting to stay in Iowa. We’ll find out what he’s thinking about and get his take on his new column with the Iowa Writers’ Collaborative. Here is your link for today (starting at noon central time):DAVE PRICE ZOOM CALL LINK2023-07-1759 min
The Big Picture (Featured Interviews)WCPT Interview: Reporter Laura BelinEisendrath interviews Iowa reporter, Laura Belin on "The Big Picture."See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.2023-06-0628 min
Julie Gammack's Iowa PotluckMeet Iowa Capital Dispatch's reporter who will be covering higher educationOur Monday Zoom lunch guests on May 15 (in the podcast above) were Kathie Obradovich and her newest addition to the stellar Iowa Capital Dispatch team, Brooklyn Draisey. In this conversation you will listen to Obradovich, the managing editor of Dispatch, and Brooklyn. You’ll also hear questions and suggestions from experienced journalists on the call, who are welcoming Brooklyn to this very important beat.Iowa just lost Iowa Wesleyan University, a 181-year-old fixture and employer in the town of Mt. Pleasant. This is speculation, but I can’t help wonder if the plight of the school had been...2023-05-1958 min
Julie Gammack's Iowa PotluckA new Potluck feature announcedThis post is an audio version of our Zoom session last week featuring veteran broadcasters George A. Clark and Michael Libbie talking about their experience with podcasting. We also had Mary Swander and Bob Leonard on the call, who both have audio shows. This coming Monday, we are going to try something different. The open-show format was popular when I was a talk show host on WHO-AM radio, so let’s try it in the Zoom Monday Lunch space. Back in the day, I was known to throw out all kinds of topics, in...2023-02-231h 02
The Iowa PodcastIowa Caucuses over for Democrats? Editor of Bleeding Heartland explains reasons behind exit.After 50 years, the DNC Rules and Bylaws Committee has recommended Iowa lose its first-in-the-nation status. But not only that, Iowa won't be in the first 5 early states at all. Laura Belin, Editor and Publisher of Bleeding Heartland, Iowa's progressive news source, explains the reasons for this historic and tragic shift. Belin says a few factors may be at play in this decision. President Joe Biden didn't do well in Iowa. He finished 5th in 2008 and 4th in 2020. He finished 5th in New Hampshire which has also had its first primary status challenged. Also, Iowa is no longer...2022-12-0732 min
What A WeekHear No Outbreak, See No OutbreakWe're joined this week by Bleeding Heartland's Laura Belin to talk about the breaking story that the director of Iowa's Department of Public Health "rebuffed an offer of federal assistance to deal with COVID-19 outbreaks in meatpacking plants" and the coming fight between Iowa's Secretary of State and county auditors over the new vote by mail restrictions.Links Follow Laura on Twitter Why didn’t Iowa accept CDC’s offer to help with meatpacking plant infections? - Iowa Capital Dispatch Iowa elections director misstates law in warning to county auditors - Bleeding Heartland--- Send in a voic...2020-07-1021 min
Journalists Are My HeroesWho Qualifies as a Journalist in Our Partisan Digital World? With Laura Belin of Bleeding HeartlandLaura Belin of Bleeding Heartland has spent more than a decade and produced more than 7,000 posts as a progressive political blogger. She's also on the front lines of changing notions of journalism in this scrappy era of digital media. She's a research analyst by training who once covered Russian politics and now sees herself occupying a "no man's land" somewhere between traditional journalism and academia. Some of her staunchest critics tend to be fellow Democrats -- something that can't help but be on her mind as she covers a new glut of presidential candidates who will compete in the 2020...2019-02-0944 min
Need to Know with Jeff AngeloIt's Getting Hot in District 82Laura Belin of Bleeding Heartland handicaps the race to represent parts of SE Iowa2017-08-0309 minNeed to Know with Jeff AngeloHow Far Back Does Senator Bertrand's Beef With Leadership Go?Laura Belin, of the progressive blog Bleeding Heartland, discusses the rift between Bertrand and GOP leaders that culminated in his call for Bill Dix to resign. Plus, hear his epic rant from this year's Legislative session.2017-07-2116 min