Here First

Governor Kim Reynolds vetoed an eminent domain bill. Unhoused veterans in Polk County are becoming fewer. And how are Native American tribes in the Midwest getting their ancestral land back?

Protesters against ICE raids in Los Angeles rallied in Des Moines last night. A Democratic state lawmaker is running for U.S. Senator Joni Ernst's seat in 2026. And a look at the federal and state proposals for Medicaid.An earlier publication of this podcast said there was no police presence at the rally. There were Des Moines police officers observing from a distance in a nearby building, but there were no confrontations with protestors.

Iowa's ag secretary says he doesn't know yet how proposed federal cuts USDA programs could impact Iowa farms. Several central Iowa counties are making public health plans. And tractors are on the move in Eastern Iowa for a yearly showcase.

The state will seek federal permission to establish work requirements for Iowa's Medicaid expansion program. Iowa is ninth in the country for child well-being. And how are some trying to bring awareness to radon mitigation?

A Missouri woman has been released from jail after being detained by ICE for over a month. Corporate sponsorship for Pride month events is down across the country and in Iowa. And why are screwworms worrying cattle ranchers?

The ACLU of Iowa says some cities could unconstitutionally restrict drag performances. An Iowa DOGE Task Force member says Iowa should consolidate the counties. And there was a vigil for Afghan refugees.

A federally funded health care center in central Iowa is ending gender affirming care. Another Democrat has announced a campaign for governor. And an over century old Iowa history publication is trying to find a new publisher.

A Democrat has announced a campaign for U.S. Sen. Joni Ernst's seat. There are efforts to keep open two Job Corps in Iowa. And a southern Missouri community is advocating for the release of an immigrant who was detained by ICE at a routine meeting.

Senator Joni Ernst is facing backlash for a comment she made at her town hall in eastern Iowa. Healthcare workers in Ottumwa are unionizing. And a law that protects wetlands has been upheld by a federal court.

Local fundraising efforts will allow some AmeriCorps workers to stay in Davenport for the summer. Iowa Democrats are worried about the impact to rural healthcare under proposed federal Medicaid cuts. And why are more farmers taking out loans?