ITR Live: Iowa Politics and Conservative Policy

In this episode of ITR Live, Chris Hagenow and John Hendrickson dive into the latest ITR Foundation poll, offering fresh insight into how Iowans feel about taxes, spending, education, and the state’s political environment. With overwhelming bipartisan support for constitutional limits on raising taxes and capping property tax growth, the poll makes clear that taxpayers want stronger protections — and they want them now.The conversation also takes a serious turn with the shocking story of Des Moines school superintendent Ian Roberts, who was detained by federal agents under a long-standing deportation order. Chris and John walk through the facts of the case, raise questions about how Roberts was ever hired to lead Iowa’s largest school district, and criticize the evasive responses of Democratic leaders. For Iowans, the scandal isn’t just about immigration — it’s about accountability in education and government.From there, the hosts return to the numbers: the poll shows Iowa Republicans remain in a strong position heading into 2026, with a +10 point generic ballot advantage even in what should be a difficult midterm environment for the party in power. Education Savings Accounts continue to gain support as more families see their benefits firsthand, while property tax reform remains a political winner that cuts across party lines.The episode closes with a thoughtful exchange on tariffs and trade, showing how conservative views on economic policy are shifting in the Trump era. Chris and John weigh the populist push for tariffs against Iowa’s agricultural reliance on global markets, highlighting both risks and opportunities. It’s a conversation that shows how national debates directly impact Iowa families and businesses.

In this episode of ITR Live, Chris Hagenow and John Hendrickson cover a full roundup of Iowa political developments as fall elections approach. They open with a trivia challenge before diving into what’s on the minds of voters, policymakers, and taxpayers across the state.The discussion highlights the upcoming release of the ITR Foundation poll, which will gauge the political environment, issue positions, and image ratings of Iowa leaders. Chris and John preview why this data matters—not just for campaigns, but for understanding whether Iowa taxpayers remain aligned with conservative policies like tax relief and limited government.They then turn to the recent leadership shake-up in the Iowa Senate, where Mike Klimesh was chosen as Majority Leader following Jack Whitver’s retirement. The hosts emphasize the importance of leadership unity and how internal divisions—such as debates over carbon pipelines—could shape the caucus’s effectiveness in delivering for taxpayers.The episode also explores the crowded race for Iowa’s 2nd Congressional District, the impact of Representative Mike Sexton’s resignation and upcoming special election, and how Democrats are attempting to leverage special election wins to claim momentum. Chris and John push back on overstated narratives, arguing that the real driver in these contests is organization and turnout.Finally, they address local elections and ballot issues, including bond referenda and troubling reports of candidates being left off ballots due to filing errors. They call for reforms to increase transparency, protect ballot access, and give taxpayers more time and information when local governments propose major spending projects. The conversation closes with a reflection on the legacy of ITR’s founder, David Stanley, and his enduring focus on government spending as the central issue for taxpayers.

In this episode of ITR Live, Chris Hagenow and John Hendrickson reflect on a season of transition in Iowa politics. The conversation begins with the sad news of State Senator Claire Celsi entering hospice care, followed by the major announcement that Senate Majority Leader Jack Whitver will not seek reelection. Chris and John take time to honor Whitver’s service and leadership, calling it the end of an era for Iowa conservatives.They describe Whitver as one of the most consequential leaders in Iowa’s history, whose partnership with Governor Kim Reynolds helped deliver transformational tax reform, prudent budgeting, and a new era of fiscal conservatism. Whitver’s ability to communicate clearly, lead a caucus, and raise the resources necessary to secure and expand a Republican majority is highlighted as a central reason for Iowa’s recent wave of conservative victories.The discussion then shifts to John Hendrickson’s new role on the advisory board of the Center for Intellectual Freedom at the University of Iowa. Chris and John share their excitement about the center’s mission: encouraging civic education, free speech, and a return to teaching the Constitution and America’s founding principles. They emphasize that these initiatives are not partisan but essential for a healthy democracy and a well-rounded education.The episode wraps up with listener feedback on a recent discussion about Christian martyrs in American history, including reactions to bold statements made on the show. As always, Chris and John remind listeners that ITR Live exists to defend ideas, encourage thoughtful debate, and keep taxpayers at the center of Iowa’s policy discussions.

This episode of ITR Live takes a somber turn as Chris Hagenow and John Hendrickson reflect on the shocking assassination of conservative leader Charlie Kirk. The conversation aims to consider what Kirk’s life, influence, and death mean for Iowa, the conservative movement, and the future of free speech in America.Chris and John discuss Kirk’s outsized role in shaping conservative politics, especially through his founding of Turning Point USA and his ability to connect with high school and college students. More than a commentator, Kirk became a mentor and counselor to members of Congress, activists, and young conservatives nationwide. His willingness to debate opponents and elevate the exchange of ideas stood in stark contrast to the culture of shouting down and silencing that dominates too many campuses.The conversation also addresses the troubling normalization of political violence. Chris and John warn that rhetoric portraying opponents as “Nazis” or “fascists” fuels a dangerous culture where some begin to see violence as an acceptable political tool. They call on leaders from both parties to reject this trend and recommit to the free exchange of ideas as the cornerstone of democracy.Finally, the episode looks at Kirk’s faith, his Christian witness, and the legacy he leaves behind. For Chris and John, the path forward is not a call to arms, but a call to speak boldly and gracefully in defense of ideas. They challenge listeners to honor Kirk’s legacy by recommitting to civil debate, protecting free speech, and strengthening the conservative movement for future generations.

As summer turns to fall, ITR Live returns with fresh energy for the political season. Chris Hagenow and John Hendrickson kick off the episode by recapping the post–Labor Day shift when campaigns and legislative conversations get serious again. With schools back in session and vacations over, the political calendar is heating up, and ITR Live is here to break it all down.The discussion opens with the latest update in the 2026 governor’s race as Adam Steen joins the field. Chris and John examine how his late entry could affect the dynamics, what messages Republican candidates are testing, and how Rob Sand is using his uncontested path on the Democratic side to shape a negative narrative about Iowa’s policies. The hosts push back, reminding listeners that Iowa’s fiscal track record is strong, taxpayer-focused, and worth defending.Next, the episode covers the big news in Iowa’s U.S. Senate race. Senator Joni Ernst has announced she will not seek reelection, setting the stage for Ashley Hinson to emerge as the frontrunner. Chris and John explain why Hinson’s ground game and deep connections across Iowa make her a formidable candidate, while also highlighting the open congressional seat this creates in northeast Iowa.Finally, the hosts turn to Iowa’s revenue picture. With the flat tax now in place, income tax collections are down — by design. Chris and John emphasize that lower collections are not a crisis but a sign that taxpayers are keeping more of their money. The real challenge is on the spending side. They argue that lawmakers must resist new spending commitments, look critically at exemptions and giveaways, and stay focused on fiscal discipline.

The Iowa State Fair once again provided the perfect backdrop for politics, food, and plenty of speculation about Iowa’s future leadership. In this episode of ITR Live, Chris Hagenow and John Hendrickson unpack the buzz around the Iowa Secretary of State straw poll results, highlighting what they reveal about voter sentiment heading into 2026. From Governor Reynolds’ enduring influence to the early positioning of would-be successors, the episode explores the dynamics shaping Iowa’s conservative movement.But it’s not just Republicans in the spotlight. Iowa Democrats used the fair to test new talking points, particularly in rural communities, shifting toward centrist or more populist rhetoric. The hosts examine whether this change is genuine or simply a political strategy to reconnect with voters who have overwhelmingly embraced conservative policies in recent years.The episode closes with a discussion on media coverage, political messaging, and how taxpayers must remain vigilant against attempts to mask higher spending behind clever campaign slogans. The fair may be about butter cows and pork chops on a stick, but as always, it’s also about who will carry Iowa’s conservative banner into the next election cycle.

In this episode of ITR Live, Chris Hagenow and John Hendrickson cut through the noise on some of Iowa’s most talked-about policy issues—from the latest IPERS debate to ongoing efforts to rein in government spending.They unpack the findings of Iowa’s Department of Government Efficiency Task Force, exploring what proposed changes could mean for taxpayers at both the state and local levels. Chris and John discuss how spending reforms are framed in the public debate and why messaging often determines whether conservative ideas succeed or fail.Along the way, they tackle the political posturing surrounding IPERS, highlight examples of government duplication across Iowa’s 99 counties, and touch on national developments, including redistricting fights in Texas and what lessons they might hold for Iowa.Whether it’s pensions, budgets, or bureaucratic bloat, this episode offers a clear-eyed look at the facts—and how they’re communicated—so taxpayers can see past the rhetoric.

In this episode of ITR Live, Chris Hagenow and John Hendrickson cover a wide range of topics—from local bond issues to national politics—all with one central theme: it’s always about spending.They start with a tribute to Ed Feulner, the co-founder of the Heritage Foundation, reflecting on his impact on conservative policy and his role in shaping think tank culture.Chris and John then shift to Iowa’s 2028 presidential caucus chatter, with big names like Glenn Youngkin, Sarah Huckabee Sanders, and Ted Cruz making early visits. They discuss why this cycle feels like it’s starting sooner, and explore the evolving divide in the conservative movement between populism and traditional conservatism. They also name JD Vance as the likely frontrunner for the 2028 nomination.Back in Iowa, the hosts spotlight local government spending issues, including Marion’s $44 million aquatic center bond proposal and Dallas County’s new courthouse plan, which is back on the ballot at an even higher cost after voters rejected it last year. They note that this has become a pattern: when voters say no, local leaders often try again—just with a bigger price tag.Finally, they wrap up with a reminder about Iowa’s state revenue trends, the importance of long-term spending restraint, and why tax cuts only work if government growth stays in check. Chris and John also highlight the need for constitutional protections, like Illinois’ flat tax safeguard, to keep future tax increases at bay.

In this episode of ITR Live, Representative Taylor Collins joins Chris Hagenow for a conversation on higher education reform, property taxes, government spending, and what comes next for Iowa’s conservative majority.Collins reflects on his role as chair of Iowa’s new House Higher Education Committee, a position created to take on real reform—not just talk about it. He shares how his committee helped establish the new Center for Intellectual Freedom at the University of Iowa, designed to restore viewpoint diversity and push back against the left-wing bias that dominates campus life. Collins and Hagenow discuss why this isn’t just about headlines—it’s about making sure the reforms are implemented and monitored over time.The conversation shifts to college affordability, with Collins explaining the College Affordability Act, a new effort to encourage three-year degrees, work-study programs, and reduced bureaucracy in higher education. They also tackle the challenge of fixing curriculum priorities, ensuring that students leave college with civic knowledge—not just workforce training.On the fiscal front, Collins talks about his work on the House Appropriations Committee, where the focus remains on aligning spending with long-term revenue, not just chasing one-time budget surpluses. Chris and Taylor emphasize that Iowa’s tax cuts will only work if spending stays under control, both at the state and local level.Finally, they discuss property tax reform—what’s been done, what’s left to do, and why changing taxpayer expectations is just as important as changing the system itself. The episode closes with a call for Iowa’s conservative leaders to stay focused, keep finding the next big challenge, and continue moving Iowa forward.

In this post–4th of July episode of ITR Live, Chris Hagenow and John Hendrickson recap a big week in Iowa and national politics, including Chris’s firsthand experience attending Donald Trump’s rally at the Iowa State Fairgrounds. The event served as the national kickoff for America’s 250th anniversary celebration, and the hosts reflect on the rally’s strong themes of patriotism, national renewal, and unapologetic American pride.They also unpack Trump’s remarks on foreign policy, economic wins, immigration, and a headline-grabbing comment about making agricultural employers responsible for illegal immigrant labor. The episode explores how this plays politically—and what Trump may be signaling for a second term.Closer to home, Chris and John run through a busy few days in Iowa politics. Key updates include: • Attorney General Brenna Bird announcing she won’t run for governor • Congressman Zach Nunn now seriously considering entering the race • Matt Windschitl running for Congress in IA-04 • What the third district could look like if Nunn vacates the seatThey close with a reminder to prospective local candidates: now is the time to get moving. With a huge 2026 cycle ahead—including potential shifts in the governor’s office, Congress, and down-ballot seats—Iowa is shaping up for one of its most consequential political years in decades.

On this episode of ITR Live, Chris Hagenow welcomes back Sarah Curry for a wide-ranging discussion on new Iowa laws, fireworks, local government power, and how communities define success. July 1 marks the beginning of Iowa’s new fiscal year—and the effective date for many of the bills passed during the 2025 legislative session.The conversation covers Iowa’s new hands-free driving law, changes to civil rights code language, and fireworks preemption—highlighting how the state is asserting authority over patchwork local ordinances. Chris and Sarah explain why uniformity matters and push back on the myth that “local control” always means more freedom or better governance.The second half of the episode focuses on ITR Foundation’s recent symposium for local elected officials. Sarah shares insights from the event, including how local leaders can resist “mission creep” and avoid government-driven growth that doesn’t serve existing residents. With stories from across Iowa, the episode challenges the assumption that every community must grow to thrive—and suggests that serving current taxpayers well is often the best growth strategy of all.As a bonus, listeners get a sneak peek at ITR’s upcoming “Pain Index” release, which will analyze the latest local government spending data across Iowa. And yes, there’s also a surprise Disney trivia question and fireworks banter—because it’s ITR Live.

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

Iowa politics is heating up—even in the summer. In this episode, Chris and John discuss behind-the-scenes moves in the 2026 Iowa governor’s race, including State Representative Eddie Andrews’ growing focus on property tax reform. They also cover Governor Reynolds’ recent veto and the potential for a special legislative session to override it.The conversation turns to local government spending, highlighting Iowa City’s plan to pursue a local-option sales tax—despite already implementing a franchise fee. Chris and John ask why local governments insist on spending more, even while claiming to prioritize property tax relief.The hosts dig into housing policy, questioning the role of cities like Waukee in subsidizing affordable housing despite ample federal incentives already in place. Is government the right entity to address housing shortages—or is it just chasing the next big narrative?They close with reflections on the importance of civic education in Iowa, concerns about ideological bias in new university-led civics centers, and a call to return to foundational civic principles—maybe even through a little Schoolhouse Rock.📣 Special guests this week: Ronald Reagan (via quote), Uncle Sam (via Bugs Bunny), and a trivia question from the Federalist Papers.

In this episode of ITR Live, the team reviews the final actions taken by Governor Kim Reynolds as the 2025 Iowa legislative session comes to a close. With the deadline for gubernatorial action now passed, the conversation highlights which bills received her signature, which didn’t, and what it all means for Iowa taxpayers.Chris Hagenow and John Hendrickson walk through key legislation signed into law—emphasizing wins for taxpayers, education freedom, and limited government. They also explore the strategic implications of a few notable vetoes or omissions, as Governor Reynolds continues to shape her policy legacy in Iowa.The episode takes a broader view of what the 2025 session accomplished, particularly in the context of Reynolds’ past tax reform victories and the expectations that will follow in 2026. Chris and John close with speculation about what comes next—both for Iowa’s fiscal priorities and the emerging 2026 election landscape.

In this episode of ITR Live, the conversation centers on a persistent theme: the growth in government spending at every level, and taxpayers are the ones footing the bill. Chris Hagenow and John Hendrickson argue that despite the headlines and partisan noise, the real problem isn’t tax cuts—it’s the continued growth of spending in federal, state, and local budgets.The episode opens with Iowa political news: Representative Eddie Andrews has entered the race for governor, launching what could be the first step in a long conversation about who will carry forward Governor Kim Reynolds’ conservative legacy. With speculation mounting about whether Senator Joni Ernst will run, and the growing sense that Congresswoman Ashley Hinson would be the favorite if she did, the hosts discuss the emerging dynamics of the 2026 race.From there, the focus turns to the federal spending package recently passed by Congress. Elon Musk’s public criticism of the bill for increasing debt and failing to cut spending gets a spotlight, reinforcing ITR’s message that Iowa families are paying the price for fiscal irresponsibility in Washington. But the hosts are quick to point out that Iowa is not immune—local governments continue to grow faster than population or inflation, and state lawmakers must stay focused on spending restraint.This episode offers a timely reminder: lasting tax relief can only come with meaningful spending control, whether you’re looking at D.C., the Iowa Capitol, or your county courthouse.

In this episode of ITR Live, Chris Hagenow and John Hendrickson cover a range of pressing issues, from Senator Rand Paul’s recent visit to Iowa and the implications of his federal spending critique, to the Iowa legislature’s new civics education requirement for high school students. It’s an episode that connects federal fiscal concerns with state-level responsibility—and a call to renew America’s civic literacy.The discussion begins with Paul’s call for real entitlement reform and block granting federal funds like Medicaid and education to the states. While supportive in theory, Chris and John point out the potential risks of this approach if not accompanied by meaningful federal spending reform: namely, federal offloading without federal funding. Drawing on Iowa’s experience with Medicaid expansion, they caution that block grants without budget discipline at the federal level simply shift the fiscal burden to states like Iowa.They then turn to the 2026 Iowa governor’s race, examining early dynamics within the Democratic Party. A progressive blog post critical of State Auditor Rob Sand’s moderate positioning prompts a discussion about ideological tensions, and whether Iowa Democrats will again try to coronate a nominee rather than hold a competitive primary.The second half of the show shifts to civics education. Governor Kim Reynolds recently signed a bill requiring high school graduates to pass the U.S. citizenship exam—a move the hosts praise as a baseline requirement to restore public understanding of American government. Chris quizzes John on real questions from the exam, sparking a spirited conversation on federalism, states’ rights, and education bias in civics classrooms.They close the show with a quote quiz from the Hendrickson Library archives on government reform and tax restraint—a reminder that spending discipline is not a new idea, and that state and federal leaders must embrace it again.

In this episode of ITR Live, Chris Hagenow and John Hendrickson take a deep dive into the proposed federal “Big, Beautiful Bill” —a sweeping tax and budget to extend the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA). They explore what’s included, how it could impact Iowa taxpayers, and why federal spending policy is just as important to state-level fiscal decisions as what happens in Des Moines.The episode starts with local stories, including Axios Des Moines’ report on housing incentives and Des Moines’ call for suburban areas to contribute more to metro affordable housing projects. Chris and John push back on the idea of taxpayer-subsidized development, highlighting how government incentives—whether for low-income housing or luxury projects—distort the free market and fuel property tax frustrations.From there, they shift to the heart of the episode: Trump-era tax cuts are set to expire, and Congress is working on a major package to extend and expand many of those provisions. The bill includes an expanded child tax credit, increases to the standard deduction, and proposed tax exemptions for tips and overtime pay. Chris and John warn that while these carveouts may be politically appealing, they erode the tax base and complicate Iowa’s flat tax system due to the state’s rolling conformity with federal tax law.They also dissect the politics of the SALT cap debate, a key sticking point among lawmakers from high-tax states, and outline how raising the cap to $40,000 could disproportionately benefit wealthier taxpayers in states like New York and California—undermining the incentive for state-level tax reform.In closing, the hosts emphasize the broader lesson: neither tax relief nor economic growth is sustainable without spending restraint. With the federal government projected to spend nearly $89 trillion over the next 10 years, and only modest cuts proposed, Chris and John preview future ITR Foundation efforts to spotlight the dangers of unchecked national debt—and why every taxpayer, including Iowans, should care.

In this episode of ITR Live, Chris Hagenow and John Hendrickson return to the Hendrickson Library to break down the latest developments at the Iowa Capitol. With the legislative session winding down, the duo provides an insightful overview of major fiscal and tax policy victories, including the final status of property tax reform, and Iowa’s continued momentum toward a pro-growth, limited-government future.The conversation highlights the effectiveness of Governor Kim Reynolds’ conservative agenda and the broader legislative push for long-term taxpayer protections. Chris and John analyze the political and philosophical significance of embedding fiscal conservatism—like income tax elimination and 2% local spending caps—into the constitutional framework of the state.They also discuss the importance of making the moral case for tax cuts and how Iowa remains a national leader in advancing conservative reform. From John’s reflections on leadership to Chris’s call for more engagement, this episode encapsulates why Iowa’s model of governance deserves national attention.Key Topics: conservative budgeting, property tax limits, taxpayer relief fund, limited government, Iowa legislative recap, income tax cuts, and moral justifications for fiscal restraint.

In this episode of ITR Live, Chris Hagenow and John Hendrickson go deep on the one issue driving nearly every fiscal headache in Iowa: government spending. From the state budget being finalized at the Capitol to property tax increases across the state, this episode is a comprehensive takedown of how unchecked spending—at both the state and local level—is the real cause of Iowa’s tax burden.Chris and John start with the state budget process, which is on track to grow by over 5% this year—fueled in part by federal Medicaid obligations and education savings account (ESA) implementation. While some of the growth may be justifiable, they warn that this rate of increase cannot continue long-term without jeopardizing the hard-won flat tax reforms.On the local side, they dissect Coralville’s budget and how city leaders touted a tiny property tax levy cut—while hiking utility and yard waste fees and doubling the franchise fee. Despite all the technical language and rate adjustments, Coralville’s overall spending is still increasing, and its levy rate remains higher than many peer cities.The hosts argue that all of this complexity confuses taxpayers and protects the status quo. The real solution? Clear spending limits and transparent property tax notices. They call for the legislature to finally fix Iowa’s notification system so taxpayers can understand how much their bills are actually going up—without needing a calculator.The episode closes with a teaser for a future “Blow Up the System” episode where they’ll explore bold ideas like eliminating the income tax or replacing property taxes entirely—and whether it’s time to get serious about Utah-style reform.

In this episode of ITR Live, Chris Hagenow and John Hendrickson tackle a growing debate in Iowa: Should state tax policy include more exemptions, carveouts, and targeted relief—or should we stay focused on keeping rates low for everyone? The conversation dives into a series of recent proposals, including sales tax exemptions for toilet paper and vitamins, as well as income tax exemptions for tips and overtime pay.While these proposals may have some political appeal, Chris and John argue they’re examples of short-term populism that undermines long-term tax reform. Each exemption narrows the tax base and shifts the burden to other taxpayers, making it harder to lower rates across the board. They warn that these types of policies reverse the progress made through Iowa’s 3.8% flat tax and could erode the simplicity and fairness of the system.The hosts also revisit calls for a senior property tax freeze, explaining why exempting one group of homeowners just increases the burden on others. Instead of picking winners and losers, they say, the goal should be to reduce the size and cost of government for everyone—a message echoed by the 70% of Iowans who support real property tax reform.Later in the episode, John shares updates on his latest op-eds covering Iowa’s GDP, flat tax benefits, and state comparisons, and discusses a recent written debate with economist Vance Ginn on Trump-era tariffs—all available on ITRFoundation.org.Wrapping up, Chris previews a ITR project focused on defining the principles of good tax policy and what fiscal conservatives should expect from future leaders—especially with the 2026 governor’s race already coming into view.