AGP Executive Report

War Powers Showdown: The Iowa House backed a war powers resolution to force an end to U.S. military action against Iran, sending it to the Senate after a rare GOP break. Iowa Politics: Iowa’s GOP governor primary delivered a shock—Zach Lahn beat Trump-endorsed Randy Feenstra—setting up a Democratic opportunity in November. Health Care Costs: Gov. Kim Reynolds vetoed an HMO tax credit tied to rural health improvements, raising fears of higher premiums for some Iowans. Housing Dollars: The Iowa Finance Authority awarded $11.3 million in federal housing tax credits to create or rehab nearly 340 affordable rentals across nine communities. Public Safety: A train and semi-truck crash in eastern Iowa killed one and injured another, with Highway 21 closed during the investigation. Research & Environment: The University of Iowa is launching a $10 million, five-year project to study how environmental exposures affect health. Local Life: UI’s van pool program helps workers commute from Solon and Mount Vernon, and Knoxville Hospital & Clinics named a new chief operating officer.

Iowa Politics: Zach Lahn upset Trump-backed Rep. Randy Feenstra to win the Iowa GOP governor primary Tuesday, setting up a fall matchup with Democrat Rob Sand. U.S. Senate: Democrats chose Josh Turek as their nominee for Iowa’s open Senate seat, beating Sen. Zach Wahls; he’ll face GOP nominee Ashley Hinson. Water & Agriculture: Gov. Kim Reynolds signed House File 2771, a “Farm to Faucet” package that redirects existing dollars and adds about $320 million over 12 years for water quality upgrades. Local Government: Des Moines County supervisors discussed an AUR Middletown bitcoin mine request tied to a county moratorium, while Webster County approved road equipment purchases including a John Deere tractor. Community & Business: Webster City’s Market Nights kick off Thursday downtown with youth-focused activities. Public Health: A Princeton, Iowa well project is drawing scrutiny after it was built for growth but began pumping nitrate-contaminated, undrinkable water.

Iowa Primary Day: County auditors remind voters that today’s primaries are separate contests for Democrats and Republicans, with polls open until 8 p.m. U.S. Senate showdown: Iowa’s open-seat race to replace Joni Ernst is driving national attention, with Ashley Hinson facing Jim Carlin in the GOP primary and Zach Wahls vs. Josh Turek in the Democratic contest. Trump “anti-weaponization” fund: The DOJ is pausing the $1.8 billion plan after GOP backlash, but the fate remains murky as Congress weighs how it could affect immigration enforcement funding. Ag policy: Gov. Kim Reynolds signed the Iowa Farm Act and the “Farm to Faucet” water-quality package, including more monitoring and rural water treatment funding. Math in classrooms: Iowa’s Math Counts Act is already shaping K-6 math instruction plans in districts like Gilbert. Public safety: Muscatine is holding a vigil after a domestic dispute shooting spree left seven dead, including the suspect. Local business spotlight: Sen. Joni Ernst named Fairfield Dental Clinic Jefferson County’s Small Business of the Week.

Muscatine Mass Shooting: Police say a family dispute in Muscatine ended with six people dead and the suspected gunman, Ryan Willis McFarland, found dead after taking his own life during a confrontation. Officers responded to a home where four victims were found shot dead, then later discovered two more victims at separate locations, including a business. Muscatine Police Chief Anthony Kies called it an “act of evil,” and investigators say there’s no ongoing threat as they continue processing scenes and interviewing. Iowa Primaries: Iowa Democrats head into Tuesday’s primary with one last competitive U.S. Senate decision, choosing between state lawmakers Josh Turek and Zach Wahls to challenge Sen. Joni Ernst’s seat. Local Government & Budgets: Webster City council approved final fiscal year 2026 budget amendments, including changes to expected property, sales, permit, liquor and sewer revenues. Business & Health: Berkshire Hathaway agreed to buy homebuilder Taylor Morrison for $6.8 billion in cash, while Southeast Iowa Regional Medical Center announced a Survivorship 101 cancer support program.

Iowa Primary Countdown: With Iowa’s June 2 primary one day away, voters are choosing nominees for an open U.S. Senate seat and other races, with polls open 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. and guidance urging people who haven’t mailed absentee ballots to turn them in locally. U.S. Senate Spotlight: The Iowa Senate race is drawing national attention as Democrats battle between Josh Turek and Zach Wahls, while Republicans choose between Ashley Hinson and Jim Carlin. Water & Agriculture: Gov. Kim Reynolds signed the “Farm to Faucet” water quality bill (HF 2771), aiming for nearly $320 million over 12 years to improve water treatment and monitoring. Renewable Fuel Push: Reynolds also signed a measure cutting an excise tax on fuels with more than 85% ethanol for use in agricultural equipment, boosting interest in ethanol-powered tractors. Rural Health Funding: In Washington, the Senate unanimously passed a bill extending the Rural Community Hospital Demonstration for five years, a move backed by Iowa Sen. Chuck Grassley. Business Climate: The Mid-America Business Conditions Index stayed above growth-neutral, though inflation pressures remain elevated.

Iowa Politics: With Iowa’s primary day Tuesday, the U.S. Senate race is drawing national attention as Democrats choose between state Reps. Josh Turek and Zach Wahls, while Republicans fight to replace Joni Ernst’s seat. Election Watch: In the GOP governor primary, President Trump’s endorsement of Randy Feenstra and Turning Point Action’s backing of Zach Lahn could reshape late momentum. Local Governance: Des Moines Public Schools’ former superintendent Ian Roberts was sentenced to two years in prison after pleading guilty to falsely claiming U.S. citizenship and illegally possessing firearms; he’s expected to be deported. Agriculture & Economy: The USDA canceled $300M in farm grants over fraud concerns, and Iowa’s renewable fuels push continues with renewed focus on year-round E15. Business & Community: BBB Midwest Plains will host its 2026 Torch Awards for Ethics luncheon Sept. 22, honoring ethical leaders and awarding scholarships. Science & Security: A Reuters look at China’s rare-earth talent pipeline highlights how universities and labs feed state-linked refining—raising pressure on Western supply chains.

Iowa Primary Countdown: Iowa voters head to the polls Tuesday, June 2, in closed primaries that could reshape Democrats’ comeback hopes, with races for governor and a retiring U.S. Senate seat plus key House contests driving national attention. GOP Senate Spotlight: In the Cedar Rapids area, Ashley Hinson’s get-out-the-vote rally was disrupted by hecklers as she pushed a ban on members of Congress using insider information for stock trading and prediction markets. Local Business & Community: Downtown Davenport hosted a free “Lemonade Sip N’ Shop” to draw people back to small businesses and boost shopping local. Agriculture & Repair: John Deere reached a $99 million right-to-repair settlement tied to access to diagnostic tools and software, giving farmers and independent repair shops more options. Environment: As federal wetlands protections roll back, localities are bracing for the fallout—wetlands regulation is shifting from Washington to the front lines. Sports & Culture: Iowa’s Megan Gustafson starred in a Fever win, while Mason City’s MacNider Art Festival returns June 13 with free admission.

Right-to-Repair: John Deere agreed to a $99 million settlement in an antitrust case, promising 10 years of access to previously restricted diagnostic tools so farmers and independent shops can repair tractors and combines. Iowa Senate Primary: Iowa Democrats are split between Rep. Josh Turek and Sen. Zach Wahls on who can best flip retiring Sen. Joni Ernst’s seat, with voters weighing electability in a GOP-leaning state. GOP Governor Race: In the June 2 primary, Zach Lahn and Adam Steen are pushing turnout hard, arguing low participation could decide the nomination as they campaign across Iowa. Water Conservation: Central Iowa Water Works asks gardeners to voluntarily cut outdoor watering by 50% under a stage 2 alert, warning some plants may struggle and urging lower-water alternatives. Local Governance: Plymouth County’s Board of Supervisors has one contested race—Craig Anderson vs. Randy Kroksh—while two incumbents run unopposed. Education & Courts: Former Des Moines Public Schools leader Ian Roberts was sentenced to two years in federal prison for falsely claiming U.S. citizenship and firearm charges. Rural Health: The Senate passed a bill extending the Rural Community Hospital Demonstration for five more years, keeping Medicare payment tests alive for Iowa hospitals including Spirit Lake, Newton, Fort Dodge and Grinnell.

School Funding & Accountability: Oelwein Community School District got a $540,000 after-school grant over five years, plus $55,000 from the Northeast Iowa Charitable Foundation, while board members pressed for clear documentation on how grant money is tracked and spent. Food Assistance Update: The Salvation Army food pantry is switching from pre-packed boxes to a “shop” model using points, aiming to cut waste and let families choose items they can prepare. Iowa Politics Ahead of Primaries: Iowa Democrats are leaning into a possible Senate comeback, with Josh Turek—an Iowa Paralympic gold medalist—seeking the Democratic nomination against Zach Wahls, setting up a likely fall matchup with Ashley Hinson. Local Campaign Stops: Mariannette Miller-Meeks defended her record in Lee County ahead of the June 2 primary, while Zach Lahn made final push stops in Marshalltown. Rural Health: The U.S. Senate unanimously passed a Grassley-backed Rural Community Hospital Demonstration to help keep rural hospitals open. Jobs & Economy: WARN notices show three Iowa employers laid off 91 workers in May, including Rhiner’s Plumbing closing in Clive. Community Life: Waterloo’s East 4th Street bridge repairs mean daily closures, and Ottumwa plans a non-political candlelight vigil for peace.

Mental Health Access: Iowa communities are trying local fixes for a statewide shortage of psychiatrists and behavioral health providers, using models that keep people from being “ejected” or “rejected” and coordinate care across teams. GOP Primary Buzz: President Donald Trump endorsed U.S. Rep. Randy Feenstra for Iowa governor just days before the June 2 primary, while a split in MAGA-aligned groups shows a brewing fight inside the party. Housing & Policy: HUD Secretary Scott Turner and Rep. Zach Nunn highlighted public-private approaches to boost affordable housing in Iowa, pointing to regulatory relief and supply expansion. Health Care Expansion: UnityPoint Health opened a new outpatient pharmacy in downtown Des Moines, adding prescription services and a future milk depot partnership. Local Government/Infrastructure: Leland officials discussed a proposed wastewater treatment plant update as federal funding support was announced. Courts & Public Safety: A former Des Moines schools superintendent was sentenced to two years in federal prison for falsely claiming U.S. citizenship. Business Closures: Hotel Ottumwa is set to close Sunday after decades as a community hub. Ag & Research: ISU researchers launched new studies on menopause and dementia risk, tracking brain blood flow changes over years.

Iowa Politics & Elections: Iowa Democrats are pushing to regain “first-in-the-nation” status for the 2028 presidential caucuses, arguing the party’s path to a majority runs through Iowa and urging the DNC to wait until after the 2026 elections. U.S. Senate Race: In the run-up to the June 2 primary, Zach Wahls is campaigning in Keokuk with an “Iowans Over Insiders” message, while other candidates crisscross the state on affordability and insider influence. Local Government: Tama County supervisors approved routine road work updates, a HomeBase Iowa application, and multiple permits and claims totaling $221,895.49. Courts & Immigration: The former superintendent of Des Moines Public Schools, Ian Roberts, faces sentencing Friday for falsely claiming U.S. citizenship and illegally possessing firearms, with deportation likely after prison. Business & Community: John Deere and Habitat for Humanity are teaming up across Iowa for a statewide build effort, with 1,200+ volunteers helping create more affordable homes. Sports: Fort Dodge girls soccer advanced in postseason play with a 2-0 win over Sioux City West.

Iowa Politics at the Fair: The Des Moines Register is bringing back its Political Soapbox to the Iowa State Fair, inviting more than 20 qualified candidates for federal and statewide races to speak up to 20 minutes each day Aug. 13–23 (no Sundays), with the schedule set for early August. Democrats’ 2028 Calendar Fight: Iowa Democrats told the DNC they’ll “work in good faith” on the 2028 presidential primary order, but warned they could pursue a rogue first-in-the-nation caucus if squeezed out. Iowa Senate Primary Watch: One week before the June 2 primary, Democrats Josh Turek and Zach Wahls are battling for the chance to face Ashley Hinson, with the contest framed as strategy and turnout versus electability. Higher Ed & “Freedom” Classes: Iowa Republicans are pushing a bill that would require University of Iowa students to take two classes at the Center for Intellectual Freedom, a move Democrats say should be vetoed. Farm Economy Pressure: Rural Mainstreet Index readings stayed below growth neutral in May, with Iowa’s rural hiring index slipping and bankers reporting worsening farm finances. FTC Fertilizer Probe: The FTC launched a major investigation into fertilizer pricing and market concentration after farmers and Iowa Corn raised concerns about high input costs and limited competition.

Local Infrastructure: Oelwein City Council approved applying for a $4.6 million Railroad Crossing Elimination grant to replace the viaduct with a two-bridge system, with the city covering a 20% match. Election & Ethics: Iowa Ethics and Campaign Disclosure Board is set to investigate claims that Des Moines County Assistant County Attorney Trent Henkelvig used county resources for campaign activity, including a podcast interview and ballot-signature efforts. Congressional Race: In Iowa’s District 2 GOP primary, Charlie McClintock and Joe Mitchell are pitching voters ahead of the June 2 contest to replace Ashley Hinson. State Politics: Iowa Senate race coverage highlights Ashley Hinson and Jim Carlin arguing affordability issues—housing, healthcare, and higher education. Public Safety & Health: Linn County officials warn mosquito season could be worse after a wet spring, while a harbor seal shot in the face (“Benny”) has died from infection after rehabilitation. Education & Community: Keokuk Community School District will run a summer meal program June 4–July 31, and Simpson College in Indianola cut men’s and women’s swimming and diving programs to address a budget deficit. Business/Development: Cedar Rapids Mayor Tiffany O’Donnell defended major data center projects in her State of the City address.

Iowa Politics: With the June 2 primary days away, Republican Sen. Dave Rowley faces challenger Stacy Besch in Senate District 5, where the debate centers on property tax relief, “medical freedom,” and cracking down on online human predators. State Health Policy: Gov. Kim Reynolds signed Iowa’s new 5-cent vape tax into law, sending the first $3 million each year to pediatric cancer research at the University of Iowa. Local Government & Services: Coralville Lake’s visitor center reopened May 1 after nearly four years of repairs, but long-term plans still lack permanent interactive exhibits. Education: The Keokuk Community School District is dealing with budget cuts, a superintendent controversy fueled by a petition, and renewed public pressure over district leadership. Public Safety & Courts: A Storm Lake attorney was publicly reprimanded for falsely claiming dementia to avoid legal duties. Justice & Crime: A Burlington woman pleaded guilty to bankruptcy fraud and identity theft tied to selling vehicles without paying off credit union loans. Agriculture & Economy: USDA’s proposed relocation of major seed banks drew fire from researchers warning it could put irreplaceable genetic resources at risk. Community & Food Security: River Bend Food Bank will receive up to 40,000 pounds of donated food and supplies through the America250 initiative.

Texas Senate Shake-Up: After months of Trump’s silence and a bruising primary, Sen. John Cornyn’s seat is now in play—Ken Paxton won the GOP runoff, and Republicans are already bracing for a tougher midterm fight. Iowa Politics & Primaries: Iowa’s June 2 primary is one week away, with candidates across races—including the GOP governor field—pushing hard as election officials work on security and turnout. Vape Tax for Kids’ Cancer: Gov. Kim Reynolds signed a new law taxing vape and nicotine pouches, with the first $3 million a year earmarked for pediatric cancer research. Housing Watch: New numbers show Des Moines home prices down year-over-year, but still volatile—buyers may get some relief, just not a straight line. Ag & Farm Costs: Farmers are juggling fertilizer pressure and fresh pest threats, as corn earworm resistance and soybean gall midge concerns spread. Local Notes: Corteva is keeping its crop-tech global HQ in Indianapolis, while Des Moines County is moving its Veterans Coffee and Conversation event after a venue closure.

SEC/College Sports Rift: Georgia coach Kirby Smart is pushing the idea that conferences should “play by our own” rules, with SEC spring meetings in Miramar Beach turning into a bigger debate over whether college football’s “Wild West” needs a breakaway model. Iowa Politics & Health: Iowa signed a new vape tax aimed at pediatric cancer research, while a separate Iowa GOP governor primary fight is increasingly centered on water quality and cancer fears tied to nitrates and agricultural chemicals. Courtroom Watch: A recent ruling keeps Brenna Bird’s top client, Donald Trump, in focus as she continues to back him even as tariffs and costs hit Iowans. Local Government: West Des Moines is restarting the Valley West Mall redevelopment search after a stalled acquisition, and Le Mars moved ahead with $45M wastewater pretreatment bonds plus a possible service-line protection program. UI/Immigration: A University of Iowa researcher says visa delays have left him “stranded” in Germany and is suing the State Department. Sports: Iowa and UConn agreed to a two-year women’s basketball scheduling deal.