News on the Iowa governor's race, and more
Laura Belin and original co-host Dennis Hart were together for the 250th edition of "KHOI's Capitol Week." They began with Iowa's 2026 governor's race: Democrat Rob Sand's 100 town halls, Democrat Julie Stauch's "interview sessions," Republican Randy Feenstra's comments on eminent domain, and recent TV interviews featuring the other three GOP candidates (Eddie Andrews, Brad Sherman, and Adam Steen). Other topics covered: what documents Iowans need to vote in next week's local and school elections, the Democratic nominee for an upcoming Iowa Senate special election, Iowans in Congress against extending health insurance subsidies, Governor Kim Reynolds' comments about the state's main public pension system, a review of the state's education licensing process, a legal challenge to a new law on county elections, an Appeals Court ruling on a state immigration law, Attorney General Brenna Bird on birthright citizenship, and news about teachers disciplined or fired over social media posts about Charlie Kirk.
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.
