AGP Executive Report

Education Policy: Red-state lawmakers are tightening general education rules, pushing more civics and “Western civilization” while critics say they’re sidelining diversity-focused courses and overriding faculty control. Iowa Ballot Fight: Iowa’s State Objections Panel removed multiple Libertarian candidates from the November ballot over missing or mismatched paperwork, including a governor ticket issue and a 3rd District name mismatch—appeals are expected. Agriculture—Pork Health: A top swine veterinarian says PRRS remains the biggest U.S. pork threat in 2026 as new variants keep circulating and complicate immunity. Agriculture—Nitrogen: Iowa State’s N-FACT tool is aimed at helping corn growers fine-tune nitrogen rates using on-farm trial data. Local Government/Business: Webster City approved development steps for Edible Gardens Prairie Hills and moved forward with budget amendments, while NFIB named Cody Carlson as Iowa state director. Health/Community: Cancer Screen Iowa launched to boost awareness and access to cancer screenings for more Iowans.

Iowa Politics: Iowa’s major parties are in full convention mode, with Republicans backing Zach Lahn and Democrats rallying around Rob Sand and their lieutenant governor picks—setting up a Nov. 3 showdown. Elder Protections: A new Iowa law starting July 1 lets insurers temporarily pause suspicious elder financial fraud transactions, aiming to stop theft before it hits. State Government & Tourism: Gov. Kim Reynolds signed an order creating the Iowa Office of Outdoor Recreation under the Iowa Economic Development Authority to fund and market parks and projects. Local Services & Community: MidWestOne’s transition to Nicolet National is set for Aug. 10, and Ames is rolling out curbside recycling to boost diversion and cut landfill hauling. Public Health & Safety: Iowa City Public Library is adapting after Baker & Taylor’s collapse, while a domestic abuse survivor in Des Moines is launching the “Sister Signal” app for support and quick help. National Watch: Supreme Court action leaves an Indiana school free-speech dispute intact, and Wisconsin egg production is down 57% amid avian flu impacts.

FISA Standoff: Congress let a key foreign surveillance law (Section 702) expire after House and Senate votes failed, with Democrats demanding President Trump withdraw acting DNI pick Bill Pulte before renewal. Iowa Courts: The Iowa Supreme Court ruled the University of Iowa can’t swap a scholarship meant for Black students to instead serve first-generation students, sending the case back for a new plan. Iowa Politics: Iowa’s major parties held state conventions, spotlighting the governor’s race and rallying behind candidates including GOP nominee Zach Lahn. Health & Schools: A poll in West Virginia found strong support for keeping school vaccine mandates, with similar results across multiple Republican-leaning states including Iowa. Ag & Weather: Storms and flooding are testing Iowa corn and soybean fields, while Wisconsin egg production remains sharply down after avian flu culls. Surveillance Debate: A national survey finds Americans back targeted AI monitoring for serious threats but oppose unchecked, indiscriminate surveillance. Farm Economy: Analysts point to crop prospects, China and Iran, and trade access as key drivers for Iowa farmland values and farm profitability.

Iowa Politics: Iowa’s governor race is set for the general election, with Republican Zach Lahn facing Democrat Rob Sand after first-round campaigning turned into early attack ads and a spotlight on taxes, education, and the economy. Local Education: Iowa lawmakers cut state funding for Adult Education and Literacy by $1 million, raising concerns for programs like Kirkwood Community College that serve working adults and parents. Public Safety & Weather: Iowa starts the week with cool, sunny weather before more rain and possible storms move in midweek. Health & Policy: A key U.S. spy program under FISA Section 702 is headed toward expiration after Congress failed to extend it, as Democrats demand changes tied to President Trump’s intelligence leadership picks. Business & Jobs: Coe College is launching a three-year online business administration degree aimed at adult students and working professionals. Community & Agriculture: A free Practical Farmers of Iowa field day is planned in Wesley, highlighting organic row-crop resilience. Sports & Culture: Zach Johnson’s PGA Tour Champions debut in Des Moines drew big local crowds, while the UFC’s White House event continues to dominate national headlines.

Iowa Politics: Iowa Republicans and Democrats formally certified their gubernatorial nominees at state conventions, with GOP delegates rallying behind Zach Lahn and approving Rep. Derek Wulf as lieutenant governor pick, while Democrats locked in Rob Sand’s ticket with Crawford County Supervisor Dave Muhlbauer and touted “hope” for November. Federal Surveillance: Congress failed to extend the foreign intelligence tool known as Section 702, setting up a likely lapse as lawmakers clash over President Trump’s intelligence leadership moves. AI & Data Centers: States are moving ahead with targeted AI rules even as Trump tries to block them, while a new look at data-center growth highlights mounting local fights over power, water, and farmland. Agribusiness & Jobs: JBS announced it will close its Souderton, Pa., beef plant, and Iowa’s corn market report points to speculators shifting sharply toward short positions. Consumer Safety: The FDA issued a highest-risk Class I recall for Alfredo sauce tied to possible salmonella contamination. Local Life: North Liberty mobile home residents fear more rent hikes after a $110 lot-rent increase was announced. Weather: Evening storms are expected to move through Iowa, followed by clearer skies Sunday.

Iowa Politics & Governance: Iowa’s GOP governor race is in the spotlight again after President Trump said Zach Lahn is “much more Trump” than Randy Feenstra, following Feenstra’s narrow loss in the June primary. National Security: Section 702 of FISA is set to expire after Congress failed to extend it, with Iowa Sen. Chuck Grassley warning of a potential intelligence gap. Economy & Midterms: Pollsters say working-class white voters are struggling to defend Trump’s economy, and one longtime Trump pollster warns, “We lose” if they don’t turn out. Tech & Water Use: Data center growth is colliding with politics, as opposition over power, water, and farmland becomes a midterm issue. Agribusiness: Trump is weighing farmer aid tied to fertilizer and fuel costs, while JBS plans to close two U.S. facilities as beef demand softens. Local Iowa Life: Des Moines’ Herbert Hoover High mural featuring “One Piece” is going viral, and FEMA approved nearly $2 million to rebuild Rock Valley’s library after the 2024 flood.

Iowa Politics: Zach Lahn named cattle farmer Derek Wulf as his lieutenant governor pick, while Rob Sand chose Crawford County supervisor Dave Muhlbauer, setting up a farm-heavy ticket ahead of Iowa’s GOP and Democratic conventions. National Security: Congress failed to extend FISA’s Section 702 spy powers, putting a Friday midnight expiration on the table and raising questions about what happens next. Health Care: A Medicare payment fix for physicians is moving through Congress, but whether the modest 2026 raise lasts is still uncertain. Local Government: Henry County is drafting 28-E agreements with nonprofits after a state audit found county donations violated Iowa’s constitution. Business & Jobs: Kent Worldwide opened a Muscatine cat litter plant adding 96 jobs, and Jack Henry marked 50 years with a campus time capsule ceremony. Weather & Safety: Iowa officials warned residents about storm-related scams and outlined more Saturday storm chances.

Spy Powers in Limbo: Congress let Section 702 of FISA expire after a House vote failed, putting U.S. foreign surveillance on track for a rare lapse while Democrats demand changes to President Trump’s acting intelligence pick. Iowa Politics: Republican gubernatorial nominee Zach Lahn named state Rep. Derek Wulf as lieutenant governor running mate, teeing up an agriculture-focused ticket for the fall. Housing & Local Growth: Registration opened for the 2026 HousingIowa Conference in Des Moines, bringing together housing, lending, and local government leaders for policy and financing talks. Workforce Pipeline: Fort Madison is building a Registered Apprenticeship path for automotive students to help fill a statewide technician shortage. Business & Jobs: Kent Worldwide opened a new Muscatine cat litter plant, adding 96 jobs, and Clock House Brewing is moving toward a Cedar Rapids taproom opening. Courts & Costs: A lawsuit claims Calvin Community in Des Moines owes Sodexo $767,343 in unpaid bills. Infrastructure Updates: Drivers face months of Highway 20 bridge disruption near Dubuque, while Lansing’s Mississippi River bridge hit a major milestone with center span installation.

Election Spending: AdImpact says U.S. political ads are on track to hit a record $11.6 billion by Election Day, with broadcast TV still the biggest slice and Connected TV climbing fast. Iowa Politics: Iowa Democrats are attacking Ashley Hinson over claims she opposed a congressional stock-trading ban while holding up to $5 million in insurance-company stock. State Policy: Iowa has become the 25th state to ban foreign contributions to ballot measure committees, joining a wave of election-law changes. Storm Aftermath & Safety: Iowa officials warn residents about storm-related scams as cleanup continues after severe weather, urging people to document damage and be wary of “storm chasers.” Local Government: Toledo city leaders moved forward on plans tied to the Alvarez Auto building and approved housing-related steps for the Woodlawn Addition. Education: STC school board voted to expel a student for the first semester, while also approving baseball field lighting repairs. Health Care: Keokuk held a packed public meeting on a proposed rural emergency hospital with Insight Health Services, focusing on what services would be available. Business & Community: Deere Days returns in Waterloo to celebrate 100+ years of tractor building, with proceeds benefiting the Northeast Iowa Food Bank.

Politics & Elections: Iowa Republicans are challenging three Libertarian candidates’ paperwork for the 2026 general election ballot, sending the disputes to the Iowa State Objections Panel next week. Business & Economy: Casey’s reported strong fiscal 2026 earnings and plans at least 120 new store openings, while a Kids Count report says Iowa’s education ranking fell into the bottom half of states for the first time since 1990. Public Safety & Weather: Severe storms across Iowa brought damaging winds and hail, with officials warning residents to watch for storm-related scams and unlicensed “storm chasers.” Community & Local Government: Des Moines is taking proposals to redevelop a decommissioned fire station on University Avenue, and Waterloo Schools froze administrator pay for a second year while teachers still get raises. Human Services & Community Impact: Iowa Secretary of State Paul Pate announced a new statewide business advisory group aimed at combating human trafficking. Sports & Culture: Caitlin Clark’s impact on the WNBA is credited with helping drive the league’s new collective bargaining agreement, and ESPN ranked Ohio State’s Jeremiah Smith as college football’s top returning receiver.

Statehouse & Business Fraud: Iowa’s new STOP Fraud Act (HF2678) signed June 1 gives the Secretary of State stronger tools to investigate fraudulent business filings tied to stolen addresses, after residents found fake companies registered to their homes. Healthcare Costs: The Iowa State Auditor is pressing Pharmacy Benefit Managers over Medicaid practices, saying payments to PBMs exceeded what PBMs paid pharmacies and that year-end reconciliations may be driving hidden back-end takebacks. Local Government & Utilities: Ames residents are set for higher bills July 1 as the city raises drinking water and sewer rates to cover inflation and nutrient-reduction upgrades at its $60 million wastewater project. Trade & Agriculture: As Trump questions whether to renew USMCA, Sen. Chuck Grassley says reauthorization is vital for Iowa agriculture, even if tweaks are considered. Storms & Safety: Severe storms hit the Midwest, knocking out power and disrupting flights, with tornado warnings issued including for southern Iowa. Arts & Culture: Grant Wood’s “Corn Room” mural is getting fresh attention after conservation work ahead of a June 13 exhibition opening in Sioux City. Community & Events: Burlington is tackling rising downtown pet waste as more housing brings more residents and pets; Webster City Market Nights returns tonight with Classic Car Night.

Venice Theatre WorldFest: Venice, Iowa is still pushing through venue delays to host its June 15-20 international community theater festival, bringing 11 troupes from around the world to Jervey Theatre. Education & enrollment: National K-12 enrollment keeps sliding as birth rates fall, putting financial pressure on districts tied to student counts. Higher ed shakeup: Gonzaga University faces controversy after a reorganization tied to budget constraints folds its inclusion office and dismisses its long-time administrator. Iowa fraud crackdown: Iowa Secretary of State Paul Pate says a new law targets scammers using real Iowa addresses to file fake business registrations. Des Moines downtown push: The city launches “Restore the Core DSM,” a $7 million program offering matching grants to turn vacant street-level spaces into active businesses. Local infrastructure: Solon City Council advances water and sewer rate changes to help fund a roughly $37 million wastewater treatment facility. Inflation hits Iowans too: U.S. inflation rose to 4.2% in May, driven largely by energy costs tied to the Iran war. Iowa IT outsourcing: Gov. Kim Reynolds says cloud and vendor management will save money but will lay off 200 state IT employees. Casey’s expansion: Casey’s plans to open at least 120 stores in fiscal 2027 via acquisitions and new builds. Ag trade pressure: Iowa ag groups defend USMCA as Trump signals doubts about renewing the deal.

South Carolina Politics: Rep. Nancy Mace conceded her GOP gubernatorial primary loss after failing to win President Trump’s endorsement; Lt. Gov. Pamela Evette and AG Alan Wilson head to a June 23 runoff. Maine Senate Race: Democrats’ nominee Graham Platner won the Maine Senate primary, setting up a high-profile rematch with Sen. Susan Collins as Platner tries to move past controversy. Iowa Schools & State Oversight: A state board is pressing Iowa City Community School District officials to return in October after audits flagged budget errors and thin reserves. Consumer Protection: Iowa’s new Stop Fraud Act gives the secretary of state more power to investigate and remove fraudulent business filings tied to stolen identities. Local Government & Growth: Cedar Rapids approved $14M incentives for a logistics facility, while Peosta is drafting a data center ordinance after a developer approach. Community & Culture: Clarinda kicks off its Glenn Miller Festival, and Webster City’s Market Night returns Thursday.

Outdoor Recreation Push: Gov. Kim Reynolds signed an executive order creating a new Iowa Office of Outdoor Recreation, aiming to coordinate state, local, and conservation efforts to grow tourism and recreation statewide. Higher Ed & Civics: At the University of Iowa, the Center for Intellectual Freedom advisory council debated the new state mandate requiring students to take civics courses tied to the center starting in 2028. Housing & Development: Hubbell Realty and Anawim Housing plan phase 3 of Baker Creek Townhomes in Central Iowa, adding 15 affordable units with construction expected late 2026. Local Government Watch: Clinton City Council is set to consider a temporary moratorium on AI data centers after residents raised concerns about zoning, environmental and quality-of-life impacts. Business & Jobs: NIACC launched a Venture Launch Lab to help early-stage businesses build the systems to grow, supported by a USDA grant. Health Care Leadership: Orange City Area Health System named Chris Sietstra as its next CEO, effective July 6.

Iowa Water Watch: Central Iowa Water Works has issued a Stage 3 mandatory lawn watering ban to protect drinking water for more than 600,000 people as nitrate levels stay elevated. Outdoor Economy Push: Gov. Kim Reynolds signed an executive order creating the Iowa Office of Outdoor Recreation, aimed at boosting the state’s nearly $6 billion outdoor tourism industry and coordinating partners. Local Government & Infrastructure: Trenton City Council approved bids and an airport hangar-related ordinance, plus a police trainee hire, while postponing some tree-trimming decisions. Business Growth: Pump & Pantry is buying 21 Hy-Vee Fast & Fresh standalone stores, expanding its Midwest footprint with multiple Iowa locations. Community & Culture: Burlington’s Partners for Conservation Foundation says it’s reached a tentative donation agreement to transfer ownership of the Big Muddy building for redevelopment. Health & Well-Being: An Iowa expert says newer mental health treatments like ketamine can help, but medication can’t replace treating the whole person. Politics Beyond Iowa: Trump formally nominated acting attorney general Todd Blanche, setting up a contentious Senate confirmation fight.

Outdoor Recreation Push: Gov. Kim Reynolds signed an executive order creating an Iowa Office of Outdoor Recreation inside the Iowa Tourism Office, with a 10-member task force to recommend how the new effort should run by early October; officials say outdoor recreation ties to about $6 billion in Iowa’s economy and nearly 50,000 jobs. Iowa Politics: Democratic gubernatorial nominee Rob Sand named western Iowa Crawford County Supervisor Dave Muhlbauer as his lieutenant governor pick, framing the ticket as “public service, not politics.” Banking Moves: Two Rivers Bank & Trust will convert to First Mid Bank & Trust on June 15, expanding First Mid’s Iowa presence after its March acquisition. Child Well-Being: Iowa’s Kids Count ranking slipped to 10th nationally, with concerns flagged in education indicators like reading and math proficiency. Local Economy & Infrastructure: Iowa DOT is taking public input on Highway 18 improvements from Sanborn to Spencer, aiming to reduce crashes with “Super-Two” style upgrades and added turning lanes. Business/Community: Pump & Pantry is acquiring 21 Hy-Vee convenience stores, expanding its Midwest footprint.