IA-02 in play, Miller-Meeks ads, Iowa Supreme Court win for Sand
Laura Belin and Spencer Dirks covered a wide range of stories, starting with what last week's special U.S. House election in Tennessee could mean for Iowa's second Congressional district. They discussed the Iowa delegation's recent comments about extending health insurance subsidies, boat strikes off the coast of Venezuela, and Pete Hegseth, and Laura's exclusive reporting about taxpayer-funded ads promoting Mariannette Miller-Meeks. 2026 campaign stories included news from the races for governor, third Congressional district, and state treasurer. Other topics covered: Brenna Bird's 99-county tour, the Iowa Democratic Party's 2028 caucus survey, the University of Iowa's "Center for Intellectual Freedom," and a unanimous Iowa Supreme Court ruling for the State Auditor's office in its dispute with the Attorney General's office.
Creators and Guests
Host
Laura Belin
Laura Belin has been called “probably the hardest-working — and perhaps the best — political reporter in the state” and “one of the best investigative reporters in the state.”
Host
Spencer Dirks
Spencer Dirks is a lifelong Iowan and has been the program director at KNIA/KRLS Radio in Knoxville for 15+ years. He also co-hosts a podcast called Iowa Revolution with Dr. Robert Leonard.
