The conversation featured Iowa political analyst Laura Belin, who offered a wide-ranging look at the current legislative session, upcoming elections, and the broader political climate in Iowa.
She described a legislature still working through several major issues, most notably property taxes, which remain the biggest point of disagreement between House and Senate Republicans. While there appears to be some alignment on the state budget, other issues like eminent domain are likely to stall out entirely. One of the more striking dynamics, she noted, is the ongoing tension between Republicans in the House and Senate. Even with a long-standing trifecta, the two chambers often operate with different priorities and, at times, clear frustration with one another. Governor Kim Reynolds, now seen as a lame duck, appears to have less influence over the process than in previous years.
Looking ahead to the elections, Belin emphasized just how unusual and competitive this cycle is. For the first time in decades, Iowa will have both an open U.S. Senate race and an open governor’s race at the same time. Add to that several competitive congressional contests and state-level races, and it becomes one of the most dynamic political environments Iowa has seen in years. Fundraising trends show some Democratic challengers performing strongly at the grassroots level, while Republican incumbents are leaning more heavily on PACs and institutional support.
Belin also made a strong case for the value of competitive primaries. While they can be costly and sometimes contentious, she believes they ultimately produce stronger candidates by increasing visibility, sharpening messaging, and forcing engagement with voters early on.
The discussion also highlighted several influential political figures and policy debates. State Representative Taylor Collins, for example, has emerged as a leading voice on higher education policy and a central figure in efforts to challenge diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives. His approach has been seen by some as aggressive, particularly in his interactions with colleges and universities.
A number of policy issues are shaping both legislative debates and campaign messaging. Healthcare is a major concern, especially as more communities in Iowa lose access to OB-GYN services, creating what are increasingly referred to as “care deserts.” These challenges are compounded by Medicaid cuts and restrictive abortion laws, which some argue are driving providers out of the state. Clean water is another issue gaining traction, particularly in statewide races, while education policy and DEI continue to be areas of sharp partisan division.
Campaign strategies are beginning to take shape around these issues. Democrats are focusing on healthcare access, workers’ rights, and environmental concerns like water quality. Republicans, meanwhile, are emphasizing tax policy and cultural issues, particularly around education.
Iowa is in Play
Several races stand out as especially important to watch, including the attorney general contest, which appears highly competitive, and the crowded Republican primary for governor, which remains unpredictable. The Secretary of Agriculture race is also drawing attention, largely because of its focus on water quality.
Overall, the takeaway is that Iowa is entering a period of heightened political competition and uncertainty. Divisions within parties, not just between them, are playing a significant role in shaping outcomes. And as candidates begin to define their messages, the issues most likely to resonate with voters include the cost of living, access to healthcare, education, and environmental concerns.
Okoboji Writers’ and Songwriters’s Retreat.
Laura will be leading workshops and on panels talking about how she approaches nonfiction writing, and researching. She’ll be one of 60+ speakers serving readers in small group discussions on a wide range of topics. Whether you’re interested in memoir, fiction, comedy, poetry, or meeting with a literary agent, this retreat is designed for you wherever you are in writing process.
The Iowa Writers’ Collaborative — Your Statewide ‘Paper’
