On Iowa Politics Podcast

On Iowa Politics is a weekly news and analysis podcast that aims to recreate the kinds of conversations that happen when you get political reporters from across Iowa together after the day’s deadlines have been met. Tackling anything from local to state to national, On Iowa Politics is your weekly dose of analysis and insight into the issues affecting Iowa.This week, we’ll cover 2026 candidates filing their required nomination signatures, legislation limiting the governor’s authority, and the Iowa Legislature vs. cancer. This episode was hosted by the Gazette Des Moines Bureau Chief Erin Murphy. It features Lee Des Moines Bureau Chief Maya Marchel Hoff, Gazette Deputy Bureau Chief Tom Barton and Gazette columnists Althea Cole and Todd Dorman.This episode was produced by Gazette Social Video Producer Bailey Cichon.Read the articles mentioned in this episode:Bills to limit Iowa governor’s authority seen by Democrats as preemptive strike ahead of 2026 election: https://www.thegazette.com/news/politics/bills-to-limit-iowa-governor-s-authority-seen-by-democrats-as-preemptive-strike-ahead-of/article_5bdabd5d-398e-4d2a-ab4d-18b3ed1f355a.htmlIowa has some of nation's highest cancer rates. Here's what lawmakers are doing to address them: https://qctimes.com/news/state-regional/government-politics/article_48384b88-11b4-4beb-ba38-1eb08995ca43.htmlAshley Hinson, Zach Wahls file for Iowa U.S. Senate primary race: https://www.thegazette.com/news/politics/hinson-and-wahls-enter-the-iowa-2026-senate-primary-race/article_1b64ac18-7ca7-4513-a412-34a1a46913c6.htmlJosh Turek files for Iowa U.S. Senate primary, invokes Tom Harkin: https://www.thegazette.com/news/politics/josh-turek-aims-to-continue-harkins-populist-legacy/article_b35e242d-1883-4bea-9106-90a4ef6f98e2.html

On Iowa Politics is a weekly news and analysis podcast that aims to recreate the kinds of conversations that happen when you get political reporters from across Iowa together after the day’s deadlines have been met. Tackling anything from local to state to national, On Iowa Politics is your weekly dose of analysis and insight into the issues affecting Iowa.This week on the podcast: Gov. Kim Reynolds’ private plane, republican gubernatorial candidate Randy Feenstra’s ad buy and developments in property tax legislation at the Iowa Capitol.This episode was hosted by the Gazette Des Moines Bureau Chief Erin Murphy. It features Lee Des Moines Bureau Chief Maya Marchel Hoff, Jared McNett of the Sioux City Journal and Gazette columnists Althea Cole and Todd Dorman.This episode was produced by Gazette Social Video Producer Bailey Cichon.Read the articles mentioned in this episode:2:33 'A sobering reminder that our freedom is not free': Reynolds offers condolences to families of Iowa soldiers killed in Kuwaithttps://qctimes.com/news/state-regional/government-politics/article_78ef53ac-082d-4c34-a069-8123d78393ce.html3:21 Kim Reynolds clearly has earned her wings https://www.thegazette.com/opinion/kim-reynolds-clearly-has-earned-her-wings/article_1e5a4c72-ea6b-5a1d-bb54-1dd8508f9458.html15:50 Feenstra campaign touts '7-figure ad buy' highlighting hiswork with Trump https://siouxcityjournal.com/news/state-regional/government-politics/article_4058ccee-5505-4e93-b51d-1b4da2a56e26.html20:57 First public hearing held on one of many bills designed toaddress Iowans' property taxeshttps://www.thegazette.com/news/first-public-hearing-held-on-one-of-many-bills-designed-to-address-iowans-property-taxes/article_d56c3479-2703-55f3-a57b-1ecbbb94631e.html25:36 ‘It is a total overhaul’: Key Iowa Senate lawmaker adamanton passing property tax relief in 2026https://qctimes.com/news/state-regional/government-politics/article_8edb3dd2-94ed-4d90-8a1d-96a3cff362e3.html

On Iowa Politics is a weekly news and analysis podcast that aims to recreate the kinds of conversations that happen when you get political reporters from across Iowa together after the day’s deadlines have been met. Tackling anything from local to state to national, On Iowa Politics is your weekly dose of analysis and insight into the issues affecting Iowa.This week on the podcast: Iowa’s U.S. Senate Democratic primary, more cancer in the Iowa Legislature, and our team’s State of the Union reaction.This episode was hosted by the Gazette Des Moines Bureau Chief Erin Murphy. It features Gazette Deputy Bureau Chief Tom Barton, Lee Des Moines Bureau Chief Maya Marchel Hoff, Jared McNett of the Sioux City Journal and Gazette columnists Althea Cole and Todd Dorman.Read the articles mentioned in this episode:Former candidate Sage endorses Turek, criticizes Wahls in Iowa Democrats’ U.S. Senate primaryhttps://www.thegazette.com/campaigns-elections/former-candidate-sage-endorses-turek-criticizes-wahls-in-iowa-democrats-u-s-senate-primary/Outside influence, division grows in Iowa U.S. Senate primaryhttps://www.thegazette.com/campaigns-elections/campaign-almanac-iowa-u-s-senate-primary-heats-up-as-gop-poll-and-democratic-divisions-collide/Sioux City state Sen. Catelin Drey says she has no signs of cancer after surgeryhttps://siouxcityjournal.com/news/local/article_0aa3e119-eb92-4810-b321-90238d06f319.htmlIowa state Sen. Dave Rowley announces tonsil cancer diagnosishttps://siouxcityjournal.com/news/state-regional/article_5f40bc2f-0eae-4dbc-8d4d-d4df682c4138.htmlIowa state Senate OKs use of SAVE to verify immigration statuses for public assistance, voter registrationhttps://qctimes.com/news/local/government-politics/article_f5f75baa-0fc6-41b1-b846-27744c8a1ac2.htmlThis episode was produced by Gazette Social Video Producer Bailey Cichon.

Pints & Politics is a year-round gathering featuring The Gazette and special guests from across the state and party lines. National, state, and local issues are covered, with opportunities to zone in on the latest headlines. Attendees participate in audience polls, submit questions, and enjoy time with some of their favorite journalists, columnists, and guests! This beloved event and lively conversation invite attendees to learn more about the issues impacting their community.This event was recorded on February 18, 2026, at CSPS in Cedar Rapids. The Gazette and Presenting Sponsor, the Cedar Rapids Area Association of Realtors, brought this event as part of our year-long series. Panelists include Gazette columnist Todd Dorman, regional editor Zack Kucharski, and special guest Adam B Sullivan. Sullivan is a former columnist and editorial writer at The Gazette, and the author of 'At Liberty,' a column discussing libertarian solutions to issues facing Iowans. The Gazette's Elena Stark moderated the session. The Gazette's Publisher, Rick Green, introduced himself and his love of, and history in, politics.

On Iowa Politics is a weekly news and analysis podcast that aims to recreate the kinds of conversations that happen when you get political reporters from across Iowa together after the day’s deadlines have been met. Tackling anything from local to state to national, On Iowa Politics is your weekly dose of analysis and insight into the issues affecting Iowa.This week we’re of course going to talk about Funnel Week in the Iowa Legislature, but we also have a few tales to share from the campaign trail in Iowa’s GOP gubernatorial primary.This episode was hosted by the Gazette Des Moines Bureau Chief Erin Murphy. It features Gazette Deputy Bureau Chief Tom Barton, Lee Des Moines Bureau Chief Maya Marchel Hoff, Sarah Watson of the Quad City Times, Jared McNett of the Sioux City Journal and Gazette columnist Althea Cole.Read the articles mentioned in this episode: Adam Steen hopes to ride momentum of Vander Plaats endorsement in Iowa governor's racehttps://qctimes.com/news/local/government-politics/article_ff405dfc-d841-4abd-b057-035fad9144ba.html‘Tough on crime’ agenda makes it through first Iowa Legislature deadlinehttps://www.thegazette.com/state-government/tough-on-crime-agenda-makes-it-through-first-iowa-legislature-deadline/ Iowa Republicans drop near-total abortion ban proposalshttps://www.thegazette.com/state-government/iowa-republicans-drop-near-total-abortion-ban-proposals/This episode was produced by Gazette Social Video Producer Bailey Cichon.

On Iowa Politics is a weekly news and analysis podcast that aims to recreate the kinds of conversations that happen when you get political reporters from across Iowa together after the day’s deadlines have been met. Tackling anything from local to state to national, On Iowa Politics is your weekly dose of analysis and insight into the issues affecting Iowa.This week on the On Iowa Politics podcast, we discuss multiple pieces of controversial legislation at the Iowa Capitol, federal immigration enforcement, and a bill to lure the Chicago Bears to Iowa.This episode was hosted by the Gazette Des Moines Bureau Chief Erin Murphy. It features Gazette Deputy Bureau Chief Tom Barton, Lee Des Moines Bureau Chief Maya Marchel Hoff, Jared McNett of the Sioux City Journal and Gazette columnists Althea Cole and Todd Dorman.Read the articles mentioned in this episode: FIRST FROM THE JOURNAL: Sioux City Rep. J.D. Scholten not seeking reelectionhttps://siouxcityjournal.com/news/state-regional/government-politics/article_c7ffa366-f7bc-4e71-8b27-a567e7993c44.htmlBill advanced by Iowa lawmakers would require in-person doctor visits for medication abortionhttps://qctimes.com/news/state-regional/government-politics/article_72d193d4-bb21-4d62-ae33-d140dacf9538.htmlTransgender Iowans protest GOP billshttps://www.thegazette.com/state-government/love-not-hate-iowans-protest-gop-bills-targeting-transgender-protections-and-parenting-rules/UI student accused of ‘trying to assault’ lawmaker as she was escorted out of DEI hearing: https://www.thegazette.com/higher-education/ui-student-accused-of-trying-to-assault-lawmaker-as-she-was-escorted-out-of-dei-hearing/ Opinion: Reynolds can’t stop kicking trans Iowanshttps://www.thegazette.com/staff-columnists/reynolds-cant-stop-kicking-trans-iowans/Could Iowa become Chicago Bears’ next home? Bill aims to lure NFL teamhttps://www.thegazette.com/state-government/iowa-lawmakers-pitch-stadium-incentives-to-lure-chicago-bears-across-state-lines/This episode was produced by Gazette Social Video Producer Bailey Cichon.

On Iowa Politics is a weekly news and analysis podcast that aims to recreate the kinds of conversations that happen when you get political reporters from across Iowa together after the day’s deadlines have been met. Tackling anything from local to state to national, On Iowa Politics is your weekly dose of analysis and insight into the issues affecting Iowa.This week on the On Iowa Politics podcast, we discuss Congressional race fundraising, caucus intrigue for both parties, news from the Iowa Legislature and more.This episode was hosted by the Gazette Des Moines Bureau Chief Erin Murphy. It features Lee Des Moines Bureau Chief Maya Marchel Hoff, Jared McNett of the Sioux City Journal and Gazette columnists Althea Cole and Todd Dorman.Read the articles mentioned in this episode: Sioux City resident arrested by DHS booked in Woodbury County jail, scope of operations unclearhttps://siouxcityjournal.com/news/local/government-politics/article_1b4ba8ac-6e9e-45f2-85fd-b65393b34e72.htmlIowa could end school vaccination requirements under bill moving forwardhttps://www.thegazette.com/health-care-medicine/iowa-gop-lawmakers-move-to-end-school-vaccine-requirements/Iowa lawmakers advance bill prohibiting partnerships between public schools and librarieshttps://qctimes.com/news/state-regional/government-politics/article_b674a9e0-ffc5-4962-a348-293a2a82d56c.htmlAshley Hinson takes massive fundraising edge in Iowa’s open-seat U.S. Senate campaignhttps://www.thegazette.com/campaigns-elections/ashley-hinson-takes-massive-fundraising-edge-in-iowas-open-seat-u-s-senate-campaign/Cash advantage gives GOP early boost in Iowa congressional raceshttps://www.thegazette.com/campaigns-elections/republicans-hold-cash-edge-in-iowa-congressional-races-heading-into-2026/Sioux City's Chris McGowan touts Trump endorsement in Fourth Congressional District racehttps://siouxcityjournal.com/news/state-regional/government-politics/elections/article_37b56447-4ed0-4ec2-930b-83c640ba4c47.html#tracking[…]op-storySee who won the Scott County GOP caucus gubernatorial straw pollhttps://qctimes.com/news/local/government-politics/article_e72818ed-1cc2-443d-bcdb-cfdc4595b19d.htmlGrassroots straw polls signal early unrest in Iowa GOP governor’s racehttps://www.thegazette.com/campaigns-elections/iowa-republican-grassroots-signal-unease-with-feenstra-as-county-parties-hold-unsanctioned-straw-pol/DNC will allow Iowa Democrats to compete for early date for 2028 caucuseshttps://www.thegazette.com/campaigns-elections/dnc-will-allow-iowa-democrats-to-compete-for-early-date-for-2028-caucuses/This episode was produced by Gazette Social Video Producer Bailey Cichon.Get daily Iowa politics updates by signing up for the free On Iowa Politics Newsletter.Comments: erin.murphy@thegazette.com

On Iowa Politics is a weekly news and analysis podcast that aims to recreate the kinds of conversations that happen when you get political reporters from across Iowa together after the day’s deadlines have been met. Tackling anything from local to state to national, On Iowa Politics is your weekly dose of analysis and insight into the issues affecting Iowa.This week on the On Iowa Politics podcast, we discuss President Trump’s visit to Iowa and so much more: 2026 election shakeups, Republican gubernatorial primary forums, a legislative forum and more. This episode was hosted by the Gazette Des Moines Bureau Chief Erin Murphy. It features Gazette Deputy Bureau Chief Tom Barton, Lee Des Moines Bureau Chief Maya Marchel Hoff, Sarah Watson of the Quad City Times and Gazette columnists Althea Cole and Todd Dorman.Read the articles mentioned in this episode: Iowa Quad-Cities lawmakers look to ramp up energy production in the state: https://qctimes.com/news/local/government-politics/article_9266bc38-061b-4b74-ac9e-0d7f88a97fa2.htmlFour Republican gubernatorial candidates lay out priorities during Eldridge forum: https://qctimes.com/news/local/government-politics/article_0c1232a3-3fd0-41d8-b594-83e8c242eff8.htmlCampaign Almanac: Wettach pivots to auditor race; Lundgren halts U.S. House bid: https://www.thegazette.com/campaigns-elections/campaign-almanac-iowa-democrat-ending-congressional-bid-to-run-for-state-auditor/Hundreds of Iowans hear Trump’s call for midterm election support: https://www.thegazette.com/federal-government/hundreds-of-iowans-hear-trumps-call-for-midterm-election-support-as-thousands-more-protest-his-appe/Cold weather, hot anger greet Trump in Clive: https://www.thegazette.com/federal-government/thousands-protest-immigration-enforcement-as-trump-visits-clive/5 takeaways from Trump's Iowa visit: Dems made up 'affordability,' no governor endorsement: https://qctimes.com/news/state-regional/government-politics/article_1f005c2c-c847-4f9e-83f3-1001a18c1a40.htmlThis episode was produced by Gazette Social Video Producer Bailey Cichon.Comments: erin.murphy@thegazette.com, bailey.cichon@thegazette.com

On Iowa Politics is a weekly news and analysis podcast that aims to recreate the kinds of conversations that happen when you get political reporters from across Iowa together after the day’s deadlines have been met. Tackling anything from local to state to national, On Iowa Politics is your weekly dose of analysis and insight into the issues affecting Iowa.This week on the On Iowa Politics podcast, we dig deep into recently published state campaign fundraising reports, everybody’s property tax flags have now been planted, and we hear from our columnists on the Cedar Rapids Schools budget situation.This episode was hosted by the Gazette Des Moines Bureau Chief Erin Murphy. It features Gazette Deputy Bureau Chief Tom Barton, Lee Des Moines Bureau Chief Maya Marchel Hoff, Sarah Watson of the Quad City Times, Jared McNett of the Sioux City Journal and Gazette columnists Althea Cole and Todd Dorman.Read the articles mentioned in this episode: Opinion: Past decisions play role in CR schools’ current problems: https://www.thegazette.com/staff-columnists/past-decisions-play-role-in-cr-schools-current-problems/Opinion: Much is at stake in Cedar Rapids school closure debate: https://www.thegazette.com/staff-columnists/much-is-at-stake-in-school-closure-debate/Rob Sand raised $9.5M last year in his campaign for Iowa governor: https://www.thegazette.com/campaigns-elections/rob-sand-raised-9-5m-last-year-without-help-from-family-in-his-campaign-for-iowa-governor/Eminent domain restrictions on pipeline projects pass Iowa House: https://www.thegazette.com/state-government/eminent-domain-restrictions-on-pipeline-projects-pass-iowa-house/Iowa House Republicans add third property tax plan to GOP debate: https://www.thegazette.com/state-government/third-gop-property-tax-proposal-emerges-as-iowa-lawmakers-debate-how-to-cut-tax-bills/

On Iowa Politics is a weekly news and analysis podcast that aims to recreate the kinds of conversations that happen when you get political reporters from across Iowa together after the day’s deadlines have been met. Tackling anything from local to state to national, On Iowa Politics is your weekly dose of analysis and insight into the issues affecting Iowa.This week, Gov. Kim Reynolds gives her penultimate — not her last — Condition of the State address, the Iowa Legislature’s annual work has begun, and so much more.This episode was hosted by the Gazette Des Moines Bureau Chief Erin Murphy. It features Gazette Deputy Bureau Chief Tom Barton, Lee Des Moines Bureau Chief Maya Marchel Hoff, Sarah Watson of the Quad City Times, Jared McNett of the Sioux City Journal and Gazette columnists Althea Cole and Todd Dorman.Read the articles mentioned in this episode: McGowan touts endorsement from former Gov. Branstad, more than $500k in fundraising since June https://siouxcityjournal.com/news/local/government-politics/elections/article_7d7382a0-ba33-4475-a1c2-84b72fc05a5f.htmlQuad-Cities community response session organized after ICE shooting in Minnesota: https://qctimes.com/news/local/government-politics/article_aa0990a9-85b6-41c2-8fa5-19d573c54e0d.htmlIowa Gov. Reynolds, in final policy push, proposes property tax overhaul: https://www.thegazette.com/state-government/iowa-gov-reynolds-in-final-policy-push-proposes-property-tax-overhaul/Iowa Gov. Reynolds proposes $9.7B budget, again drawing from state reserve funds: https://www.thegazette.com/state-government/iowa-gov-reynolds-proposes-9-7b-budget-again-drawing-from-state-reserve-funds/Iowa eminent domain, landowner rights bill passes House committee: https://www.thegazette.com/state-government/capitol-notebook-iowa-eminent-domain-landowner-rights-bill-passes-house-committee/This episode was produced by Gazette Social Video Producer Bailey Cichon.

On Iowa Politics is a weekly news and analysis podcast that aims to recreate the kinds of conversations that happen when you get political reporters from across Iowa together after the day’s deadlines have been met. Tackling anything from local to state to national, On Iowa Politics is your weekly dose of analysis and insight into the issues affecting Iowa.This week, the On Iowa Politics podcast team talks about two big topics on the new year’s horizon: Iowa’s gubernatorial campaign and the upcoming legislative session. Plus, the team does a little real estate-watching in Davenport.This episode was hosted by the Gazette Des Moines Bureau Chief Erin Murphy. It features Gazette Deputy Bureau Chief Tom Barton, Lee Des Moines Bureau Chief Maya Marchel Hoff, Sarah Watson of the Quad City Times, Jared McNett of the Sioux City Journal and Gazette columnists Althea Cole and Todd Dorman.Read the articles mentioned in this episode: Iowa Republicans will lose with Randy Feenstra: https://www.thegazette.com/staff-columnists/iowa-republicans-will-lose-with-randy-feenstra/Legislative Preview Series: https://www.thegazette.com/state-government/Former Arizona GOP candidate Kari Lake buys condo in Davenport: https://www.thegazette.com/campaigns-elections/kari-lake-a-former-candidate-for-governor-and-senate-in-arizona-buys-condo-in-davenport/This episode was produced by Gazette Social Video Producer Bailey Cichon.

This week, we look back at the year that was. And what a year it was.On Iowa Politics is a weekly news and analysis podcast that aims to recreate the kinds of conversations that happen when you get political reporters from across Iowa together after the day’s deadlines have been met. Tackling anything from local to state to national, On Iowa Politics is your weekly dose of analysis and insight into the issues affecting Iowa.This episode was hosted by the Gazette Des Moines Bureau Chief Erin Murphy. It features Gazette Deputy Bureau Chief Tom Barton, Lee Des Moines Bureau Chief Maya Marchel Hoff, Sarah Watson of the Quad City Times, Jared McNett of the Sioux City Journal and Gazette columnists Althea Cole and Todd Dorman.This episode was produced by Gazette Social Video Producer Bailey Cichon.Read the articles mentioned in this episode: U.S. Army identifies Iowa Guard soldiers killed in Syria: https://www.thegazette.com/federal-government/u-s-army-identifies-iowa-guard-soldiers-killed-in-syria/Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds announces she will not seek a third term: https://www.thegazette.com/state-government/iowa-gov-kim-reynolds-announces-she-will-not-seek-a-third-term/Iowa’s Ernst makes it official, will not seek re-election to third U.S. Senate term: https://www.thegazette.com/campaigns-elections/iowas-ernst-makes-it-official-will-not-seek-re-election-to-third-u-s-senate-term/Reynolds declares ‘Lutheran Services in Iowa Day’ as layoffs, federal interference imperil organization: https://siouxcityjournal.com/news/state-regional/government-politics/article_1287af14-fec6-11ef-9ae9-cb0f2001986f.htmlSioux City refugee family starting over, again, after apartment fire: https://siouxcityjournal.com/news/state-regional/government-politics/article_1287af14-fec6-11ef-9ae9-cb0f2001986f.htmlIndictment says Des Moines superintendent falsely claimed to be U.S. citizen: https://www.thegazette.com/crime-courts/indictment-says-des-moines-superintendent-falsely-claimed-to-be-u-s-citizen/Recount unlikely in C.R. schools’ narrowly failed bond referendum: https://www.thegazette.com/k/recount-unlikely-in-c-r-schools-narrowly-failed-bond-referendum/Opinion: Tawana Grover has to go: https://www.thegazette.com/staff-columnists/tawana-grover-has-to-go/ This Iowa county made the biggest swing to Republican in the last 12 years.Here’s what voters there said is the reason: https://www.thegazette.com/government-politics/this-iowa-county-made-the-biggest-swing-to-republican-in-the-last-12-years-heres-what-voters-there/‘Trump is speaking our language,’ says resident of Eastern Iowa county that has turned to Republican support in recent years: https://qctimes.com/news/state-regional/government-politics/article_d9529045-bf05-486e-b26d-70a5ccd2164e.htmlDemocratic politician says economics helped drive this northern Iowa county toward Trump: https://qctimes.com/news/state-regional/government-politics/article_890ddbab-406f-4423-bc26-f18edf396990.htmlIowa becomes first state to remove civil rights protections:https://www.thegazette.com/state-government/iowa-becomes-first-state-to-remove-civil-rights-protections/After a decade of defeats, some Iowa Democrats changing the way they talk to voters: https://www.thegazette.com/campaigns-elections/after-a-decade-of-defeats-some-iowa-democrats-are-changing-the-way-they-talk-to-voters/Property rights, pipeline debate heating up among Iowa Senate Republicans: https://www.thegazette.com/state-government/property-rights-pipeline-debate-heating-up-among-iowa-senate-republicans/What federal funding do local governments in the Iowa Quad-Cities rely on?: https://qctimes.com/news/local/government-politics/article_7c41c612-e006-11ef-8993-b77217ebe163.htmlUnion leaders: Jobs will be cut at the Rock Island Arsenal: https://qctimes.com/news/local/government-politics/article_43cb2d85-5c3e-4729-a9c0-8b816f82d102.htmlComments: erin.murphy@thegazette.com, bailey.cichon@thegazette.com

On Iowa Politics is a weekly news and analysis podcast that aims to recreate the kinds of conversations that happen when you get political reporters from across Iowa together after the day’s deadlines have been met. Tackling anything from local to state to national, On Iowa Politics is your weekly dose of analysis and insight into the issues affecting Iowa.This week, Iowa Democrats are divided over the caucuses, yet another multi-candidate event without Randy Feenstra, the Iowa Supreme Court sides with Rob Sand, and more.Read the articles mentioned in this episode:Iowa Supreme Court rules state auditor's office can represent itself in Davenport case: https://qctimes.com/news/local/government-politics/article_0a490601-2683-42d4-99ee-c1e372078701.html Feenstra misses another Iowa GOP forum, gets criticized by Republicans and Dems: https://siouxcityjournal.com/news/local/government-politics/elections/article_043d9e82-ee33-4e4b-90ce-4a58d6ba8307.html Party survey shows Iowa Democrats split on whether to 'go rogue' in 2028 nominating process: https://qctimes.com/news/state-regional/government-politics/article_86f9a365-cf16-4739-87f9-5854a318994f.html Wendy Larson wins special election for Iowa House District 7: https://siouxcityjournal.com/search/#:~:text=Wendy%20Larson%20wins%20special%20election%20for%20Iowa%20House%20District%207 National Democrats set sights on Iowa Legislature in 2026: https://www.thegazette.com/campaigns-elections/campaign-almanac-national-democrats-add-iowa-house-senate-to-2026-target-map/ This episode was produced by Gazette Social Video Producer Bailey Cichon.Comments: erin.murphy@thegazette.com, bailey.cichon@thegazette.com

On Iowa Politics is a weekly news and analysis podcast that aims to recreate the kinds of conversations that happen when you get political reporters from across Iowa together after the day’s deadlines have been met. Tackling anything from local to state to national, On Iowa Politics is your weekly dose of analysis and insight into the issues affecting Iowa.This week on the podcast, the IPERS CEO talks about those DOGE recommendations, the Satanic Temple’s display at the Iowa Capitol is back in the news, and Randy Feenstra addresses his lack of attendance at multi-candidate events.This episode was hosted by the Gazette Des Moines Bureau Chief Erin Murphy. It features Gazette Deputy Bureau Chief Tom Barton, Lee Des Moines Bureau Chief Maya Marchel Hoff, Sarah Watson of the Quad City Times and Jared McNett of the Sioux City Journal.1:27 IPERS chief open to review, but urges caution on new retirement option: https://www.thegazette.com/state-government/ipers-chief-open-to-review-but-urges-caution-on-new-retirement-option/6:56 Satanic Temple display at Iowa Capitol denied by state officials for second year in a row: https://qctimes.com/news/state-regional/government-politics/article_789d171a-7efb-4d6e-a27d-c01bf56d4d82.html15:38 Feenstra says he plans to appear with other candidates at future GOP events: https://siouxcityjournal.com/news/local/government-politics/elections/article_776156eb-90f5-4da2-8769-b7e837c21aa3.html22:25 Bettendorf parents, educators tell Iowa Democrats of chilling effect of Iowa laws: https://qctimes.com/news/local/government-politics/article_7e0d7fd1-c9dc-40a9-8f40-d634659fa10b.htmlThis episode was produced by Gazette Social Video Producer Bailey Cichon.Comments: erin.murphy@thegazette.com, bailey.cichon@thegazette.com

Gazette Des Moines Bureau Chief Erin Murphy sat down with Iowa Rep. J.D. Scholten on Thursday, Nov. 20, 2025 for the second in a series of 1:1 interviews with political and government leaders in Iowa. This episode was produced by Bailey Cichon.Comments: erin.murphy@thegazette.com, bailey.cichon@thegazette.com 

This week on the podcast we discuss Gov. Reynolds talking property taxes, THC drink limits in the government funding bill, a potential Democratic candidate for state ag secretary, and the Iowa delegation’s votes on the Epstein files.On Iowa Politics is a weekly news and analysis podcast that aims to recreate the kinds of conversations that happen when you get political reporters from across Iowa together after the day’s deadlines have been met. Tackling anything from local to state to national, On Iowa Politics is your weekly dose of analysis and insight into the issues affecting Iowa.This episode was hosted by the Gazette Des Moines Bureau Chief Erin Murphy. It features Lee Des Moines Bureau Chief Maya Marchel Hoff, Sarah Watson of the Quad City Times, Jared McNett of the Sioux City Journal and Gazette columnists Althea Cole and Todd Dorman.Read stories featured in this episode:Gov. Kim Reynolds plans to introduce property tax proposal during next legislative session: https://qctimes.com/news/state-regional/government-politics/article_171e89cc-bae9-43f2-a79a-2efb867e3f16.html'It would all go away': Iowa hemp retailers 'frustrated' by new law restricting products: https://qctimes.com/news/state-regional/government-politics/article_05f5bf06-f892-41b2-a1ed-325aa7ab7eba.htmlIowa's congressional delegation votes to release Epstein files: https://qctimes.com/news/state-regional/government-politics/article_1b5368b6-3cab-4190-8f2d-5f063363eb4f.htmlThis episode was produced by Gazette Social Video Producer Bailey Cichon.Get daily Iowa politics updates by signing up for the free On Iowa Politics Newsletter. (https://subscribepage.io/oniowapolitics)Comments: erin.murphy@thegazette.com, bailey.cichon@thegazette.com

This week, we discuss Iowa Congresswoman Mariannette Miller-Meeks’ fiery return to in-person town halls, Randy Feenstra’s campaign launch for governor, how Iowa Democrats messaged on health care access in the final days of the shutdown, a recount in Davenport under Iowa’s new recount laws, and a ruling from the Iowa Supreme Court in the Davenport building collapse case.This episode was hosted by the Gazette Deputy Des Moines Bureau Chief Tom Barton. It features Lee Des Moines Bureau Chief Maya Marchel Hoff, Sarah Watson of the Quad City Times, Jared McNett of the Sioux City Journal and Gazette columnist Todd Dorman.Read stories featured in this episode:Booing, heckling and walkouts mark Miller-Meeks’ town hall in Keosauqua: https://www.thegazette.com/federal-government/booing-heckling-and-walkouts-mark-miller-meeks-town-hall-in-keosauqua/Feenstra sets sights on Rob Sand at Sioux Center tour launch for governor: https://www.thegazette.com/campaigns-elections/feenstra-sets-sights-on-rob-sand-at-sioux-center-tour-launch-for-governor/Iowa Democratic U.S. Senate candidates urge party to hold the line on health care subsidies: https://www.thegazette.com/government-politics/iowa-democratic-u-s-senate-candidates-urge-party-to-hold-the-line-on-health-care-subsidies/Scott County to recount Davenport City Council 7th Ward race:https://qctimes.com/news/local/government-politics/article_939af492-dca0-4291-b326-590b42fe81ff.htmlIowa Supreme Court rules Davenport employees can be sued after 2023 building collapse: https://www.thegazette.com/crime-courts/iowa-supreme-court-rules-davenport-employees-can-be-sued-after-2023-building-collapse/This episode was produced by Gazette Social Video Producer Bailey Cichon.Get daily Iowa politics updates by signing up for the free On Iowa Politics Newsletter.Comments: tom.barton@thegazette.com, bailey.cichon@thegazette.com

Pints & Politics is a year-round gathering featuring The Gazette and special guests from across the state and party lines. National, state, and local issues are covered with opportunities to discuss the latest headlines. This Pints & Politics event was held on November 6, 2025, at The Olympic South Side Theater in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. The host was Gazette Executive Editor Zack Kucharski. Guests included Ron Corbett, vice president of economic development at Cedar Rapids Metro Economic Alliance, who helped guide a Believe in CR Schools campaign, which advocated for people to vote “yes” for the bond, and Cedar Rapids school board President Cindy Garlock.Panelists for the second part of the program included deputy Des Moines Bureau editor - Tom Barton, insights and opinion editor - Todd Dorman and former Gazette opinion writer - Adam B Sullivan.  During Pints & Politics, attendees submit questions and enjoy time with some of their favorite journalists, columnists, and guests! This beloved event and lively conversation invite attendees to learn more about the issues impacting their community.The presenting sponsor is the Cedar Rapids Area Association of Realtors..

On Iowa Politics is a weekly news and analysis podcast that aims to recreate the kinds of conversations that happen when you get political reporters from across Iowa together after the day’s deadlines have been met. Tackling anything from local to state to national, On Iowa Politics is your weekly dose of analysis and insight into the issues affecting Iowa.This week on the podcast, we’ll follow up on what happened in Iowa’s local elections, there’s a new Republican candidate for governor, and we’ll analyze this week’s national off-year election results and what they mean for 2026 in Iowa.This episode was hosted by the Gazette Des Moines Bureau Chief Erin Murphy. It features Sarah Watson of the Quad City Times, Jared McNett of the Sioux City Journal and Gazette columnists Althea Cole and Todd Dorman.Read stories featured in this episode:Democrats dominate as economic woes take a toll on Trump’s GOP: https://apnews.com/article/virginia-new-jersey-trump-election-democrat-republican-fad109893cfd4be5b49a5bb1b0138d8dZach Lahn joins crowded Republican field for governor with ‘Iowa First’ message: https://www.thegazette.com/campaigns-elections/zach-lahn-joins-crowded-republican-field-for-governor-with-iowa-first-message/Here's all of our Davenport, Bettendorf city election preview coverage: https://qctimes.com/news/local/government-politics/elections/collection_f77e4ae0-1a6a-4fa1-8448-07940483354e.htmlThe Sioux City Journal’s Election Day 2025 Blog: https://siouxcityjournal.com/news/local/government-politics/elections/article_ae320ab0-b305-4d5b-bfab-7d70e4f5b533.htmlThis episode was produced by Gazette Social Video Producer Bailey Cichon.

This week on the podcast, we discuss Randy Feenstra finally making his gubernatorial campaign official; we explore readers’ questions about how elections officials catch fraudulent voting; and we look ahead to next week’s local elections. This episode was hosted by the Gazette Des Moines Bureau Chief Erin Murphy. It features Lee Des Moines Bureau Chief Maya Marchel Hoff, Gazette Deputy Bureau Chief Tom Barton, Sarah Watson of the Quad City Times, Jared McNett of the Sioux City Journal and Gazette columnists Althea Cole and Todd Dorman.Read stories featured in this episode: Rep. Randy Feenstra formally launches bid for governor: https://siouxcityjournal.com/news/local/government-politics/elections/article_b22a8bb3-96d1-4c55-956f-117c97d02694.htmlFeenstra launches campaign for Iowa governor, pledging to ‘take Iowa to new heights’: https://www.thegazette.com/campaigns-elections/feenstra-launches-campaign-for-iowa-governor-pledging-to-take-iowa-to-new-heights/ Quad City Elections: https://qctimes.com/news/local/government-politics/ Western Iowa Elections: https://siouxcityjournal.com/news/local/government-politics/Curious Iowa: What do election officials do to prevent or catch fraudulent votes?: https://www.thegazette.com/curious-iowa/curious-iowa-what-do-election-officials-do-to-prevent-or-catch-fraudulent-votes/Marion man charged with election misconduct: https://www.thegazette.com/crime-courts/marion-man-charged-with-election-misconduct/On Iowa Politics is a weekly news and analysis podcast that aims to recreate the kinds of conversations that happen when you get political reporters from across Iowa together after the day’s deadlines have been met. Tackling anything from local to state to national, On Iowa Politics is your weekly dose of analysis and insight into the issues affecting Iowa.This episode was produced by Gazette Social Video Producer Bailey Cichon.Comments: erin.murphy@thegazette.com, bailey.cichon@thegazette.com