https://iowa-news.com Just The News Iowa delivers timely coverage of Iowa politics, local government, business, community affairs, education, and public policy. Dedicated to factual reporting and balanced journalism, the publication keeps readers informed about the issues, decisions, and events shaping Iowa and its communities. en Wed, 22 Jul 2026 15:32:01 GMT Hannibal Media Platform © 2026 Just The News Iowa 60 https://iowa-news.com/article/former-iowa-hawkeye-alaric-jackson-anchors-rams-offensive-line-as-teams-most-important-player https://iowa-news.com/article/former-iowa-hawkeye-alaric-jackson-anchors-rams-offensive-line-as-teams-most-important-player Former Iowa Hawkeye Alaric Jackson has become one of the most critical players on the Rams roster, ranking No. 5 on the team's list of 26 most important players for 2026. Sports John Damon Wed, 22 Jul 2026 15:01:41 GMT https://iowa-news.com/article/root-insurance-expands-behavior-based-car-coverage-to-new-jersey-now-in-37-states-including-iowa https://iowa-news.com/article/root-insurance-expands-behavior-based-car-coverage-to-new-jersey-now-in-37-states-including-iowa Root Insurance has expanded its behavior-based car insurance to New Jersey, bringing its total coverage to 37 states including Iowa. The company uses smartphone telematics to reward safe drivers and is on track to offer policies across the contiguous U.S. by 2027. Business John Damon Wed, 22 Jul 2026 14:01:05 GMT https://iowa-news.com/article/iowa-womens-basketball-2026-3-reasons-for-optimism-as-season-nears https://iowa-news.com/article/iowa-womens-basketball-2026-3-reasons-for-optimism-as-season-nears Iowa Women’s Basketball enters the 2026-2027 season with a breakout star, a dynamic transfer duo, and a freshman shooter. Here’s what to watch. Sports John Damon Wed, 22 Jul 2026 13:01:24 GMT https://iowa-news.com/article/iowa-native-logan-jones-aims-to-be-bears-long-term-center-solution https://iowa-news.com/article/iowa-native-logan-jones-aims-to-be-bears-long-term-center-solution Council Bluffs native and Iowa Hawkeye standout Logan Jones was drafted by the Chicago Bears in the second round, aiming to solve their long-standing center problem. Sports John Damon Wed, 22 Jul 2026 12:01:46 GMT https://iowa-news.com/article/priyanka-chopra-once-lived-in-iowa-now-shes-sharing-a-powerful-parenting-lesson https://iowa-news.com/article/priyanka-chopra-once-lived-in-iowa-now-shes-sharing-a-powerful-parenting-lesson Before she became a global superstar, actress Priyanka Chopra spent time living and studying in Iowa. Now she's sharing a simple but powerful parenting tip: the power of truly listening to your child. Arts and Entertainment John Damon Wed, 22 Jul 2026 09:01:18 GMT https://iowa-news.com/article/tyrese-haliburton-marries-jade-jones-iowa-state-romance-ends-in-courthouse-wedding https://iowa-news.com/article/tyrese-haliburton-marries-jade-jones-iowa-state-romance-ends-in-courthouse-wedding NBA star Tyrese Haliburton and Jade Jones, who met at Iowa State University, have officially married in a courthouse ceremony. The couple plans a larger wedding in August, but the celebration is tinged with grief over the loss of a close friend. Sports John Damon Wed, 22 Jul 2026 08:01:26 GMT https://iowa-news.com/article/conference-usa-football-2026-key-storylines-from-media-day-for-iowa-fans https://iowa-news.com/article/conference-usa-football-2026-key-storylines-from-media-day-for-iowa-fans Conference USA media days in Arlington, TX highlighted key storylines for the 2026 season, including NIL reform, playoff expansion, and coaching stability. For Iowa fans, these trends could reshape college football in the heartland. Sports John Damon Wed, 22 Jul 2026 07:02:37 GMT https://iowa-news.com/article/iowa-transfer-running-back-finds-new-home-as-nmsu-builds-competitive-roster https://iowa-news.com/article/iowa-transfer-running-back-finds-new-home-as-nmsu-builds-competitive-roster New Mexico State head coach Tony Sanchez says increased revenue sharing has allowed his program to keep talent and recruit players like former Iowa running back TJ Washington Jr., highlighting the shifting financial landscape of college football. Sports John Damon Wed, 22 Jul 2026 04:01:02 GMT https://iowa-news.com/article/iowa-cubs-shine-in-first-ever-trip-to-georgia-top-gwinnett-7-4 https://iowa-news.com/article/iowa-cubs-shine-in-first-ever-trip-to-georgia-top-gwinnett-7-4 The Iowa Cubs made history in their first ever trip to Georgia, topping the Gwinnett Stripers 7-4 behind strong pitching and timely hitting. Sports John Damon Wed, 22 Jul 2026 03:00:55 GMT https://iowa-news.com/article/high-school-basketball-alumni-tournament-brings-ohio-stars-back-to-court https://iowa-news.com/article/high-school-basketball-alumni-tournament-brings-ohio-stars-back-to-court A new high school basketball alumni tournament is launching in Ohio, bringing together former standouts from schools across the Buckeye State for a winner-take-all competition. The event, created by Dayton area natives Alex Patten and Richie Moody, is modeled after The Basketball Tournament (TBT) but focuses on high school alumni rather than college teams. Sports John Damon Wed, 22 Jul 2026 02:01:08 GMT https://iowa-news.com/article/iowa-football-poised-for-first-cfp-berth-in-expanded-12-team-format-analyst-says https://iowa-news.com/article/iowa-football-poised-for-first-cfp-berth-in-expanded-12-team-format-analyst-says FOX Sports analyst Joel Klatt ranks Iowa among top 10 teams most likely to make their first 12-team College Football Playoff appearance in 2026, citing Kirk Ferentz's consistency and strategic roster moves. Sports John Damon Wed, 22 Jul 2026 01:01:31 GMT https://iowa-news.com/article/iowa-gop-incumbents-dominate-fundraising-but-democrats-gain-ground-in-key-races https://iowa-news.com/article/iowa-gop-incumbents-dominate-fundraising-but-democrats-gain-ground-in-key-races New campaign finance reports show Iowa Republicans holding significant cash advantages in most statewide races, though Democratic challengers are making notable gains in several contests. Politics John Damon Wed, 22 Jul 2026 00:01:46 GMT https://iowa-news.com/article/bbe-alum-tyler-bents-returns-home-to-lead-jaguars-wrestling-program https://iowa-news.com/article/bbe-alum-tyler-bents-returns-home-to-lead-jaguars-wrestling-program Tyler Bents, a 2019 BBE grad and five-time state entrant, returns to lead the Jaguars wrestling program with a focus on building relationships and chasing big goals through small daily wins. Sports John Damon Tue, 21 Jul 2026 23:01:12 GMT https://iowa-news.com/article/supreme-court-to-decide-if-home-whiskey-distilling-is-legal https://iowa-news.com/article/supreme-court-to-decide-if-home-whiskey-distilling-is-legal The U.S. Supreme Court is being asked to decide whether Iowans can legally distill whiskey at home for personal use, after conflicting rulings from two federal appeals courts on a 158-year-old ban. Politics John Damon Tue, 21 Jul 2026 22:00:55 GMT https://iowa-news.com/article/data-center-debate-hits-iowa-governor-race-as-candidates-clash-over-moratoriums https://iowa-news.com/article/data-center-debate-hits-iowa-governor-race-as-candidates-clash-over-moratoriums Republican candidate Zach Lahn calls for a data center moratorium in Iowa's governor race, while Democrat Rob Sand pushes for accountability. The debate mirrors a national trend as voters push back against AI data centers. Politics John Damon Tue, 21 Jul 2026 21:01:01 GMT https://iowa-news.com/article/iowa-football-pipeline-how-mtsus-new-qb-plan-traces-back-to-kirk-ferentz https://iowa-news.com/article/iowa-football-pipeline-how-mtsus-new-qb-plan-traces-back-to-kirk-ferentz Middle Tennessee State coach Derek Mason's plan for quarterback Roman Gagliano includes a new offensive line coach with ties to Kirk Ferentz and Iowa football. Sports John Damon Tue, 21 Jul 2026 20:01:08 GMT https://iowa-news.com/article/grand-view-christian-stuns-hinton-in-iowa-softball-state-thriller https://iowa-news.com/article/grand-view-christian-stuns-hinton-in-iowa-softball-state-thriller Grand View Christian survives Hinton's rally with a freshman home run and eighth-grade pitching heroics to stay alive at the Iowa high school softball state tournament. Sports John Damon Tue, 21 Jul 2026 19:01:23 GMT https://iowa-news.com/article/iowa-families-mourn-3-local-soldiers-killed-in-iran-war https://iowa-news.com/article/iowa-families-mourn-3-local-soldiers-killed-in-iran-war Three service members with deep Iowa ties are among the 18 U.S. troops killed or missing in the ongoing war with Iran, leaving families in Des Moines, Coggon, and across the state grappling with devastating losses. Politics John Damon Tue, 21 Jul 2026 18:02:38 GMT https://iowa-news.com/article/iowa-hawkeyes-ranked-8th-in-big-ten-preseason-poll-can-they-compete-for-a-title https://iowa-news.com/article/iowa-hawkeyes-ranked-8th-in-big-ten-preseason-poll-can-they-compete-for-a-title The Iowa Hawkeyes are ranked 8th in the Big Ten preseason poll, but can they compete for a conference title? A look at the season ahead. Sports John Damon Tue, 21 Jul 2026 17:02:19 GMT https://iowa-news.com/article/iowa-farmers-face-grim-reality-as-brazil-overtakes-us-in-global-agriculture https://iowa-news.com/article/iowa-farmers-face-grim-reality-as-brazil-overtakes-us-in-global-agriculture Iowa farmers face record losses as Brazil overtakes the US in global agriculture. China's pivot to Brazilian soybeans and ethanol dependence threaten the state's farming future. Business John Damon Tue, 21 Jul 2026 16:01:09 GMT https://iowa-news.com/article/iowa-recruiting-buzz-cyclones-land-steady-wing-jack-kohnen-at-peach-jam https://iowa-news.com/article/iowa-recruiting-buzz-cyclones-land-steady-wing-jack-kohnen-at-peach-jam Iowa State landed steady wing Jack Kohnen at Peach Jam, while Iowa continues its pursuit of top point guard Cayden Daughtry. Here is the full recruiting breakdown. Sports John Damon Tue, 21 Jul 2026 15:01:33 GMT https://iowa-news.com/article/wh-lobbies-tillis-cornyn-for-blanche-confirmation-amid-settlement-dispute https://iowa-news.com/article/wh-lobbies-tillis-cornyn-for-blanche-confirmation-amid-settlement-dispute The Trump administration is lobbying Sens. Thom Tillis and John Cornyn to salvage attorney general nominee Todd Blanche's confirmation, as the two Republicans withhold support over a controversial $1.8 billion settlement fund. Politics John Damon Tue, 21 Jul 2026 14:01:17 GMT https://iowa-news.com/article/house-vote-exposes-deep-democratic-divide-on-israel-aid https://iowa-news.com/article/house-vote-exposes-deep-democratic-divide-on-israel-aid A House vote last week saw 103 Democrats join a Republican to cut Israel aid, exposing a deep party divide that could reshape U.S. foreign policy and impact Iowa's Senate race. Politics John Damon Tue, 21 Jul 2026 13:01:38 GMT https://iowa-news.com/article/iowa-cyclospora-outbreak-what-you-need-to-know-about-the-taylor-farms-lettuce-recall https://iowa-news.com/article/iowa-cyclospora-outbreak-what-you-need-to-know-about-the-taylor-farms-lettuce-recall A cyclospora outbreak linked to Taylor Farms lettuce has sickened over 7,000 people. Iowa consumers are affected. Here is what you need to know to stay safe. Health John Damon Tue, 21 Jul 2026 12:01:51 GMT https://iowa-news.com/article/trumps-south-carolina-endorsement-faces-new-test-in-crowded-senate-race https://iowa-news.com/article/trumps-south-carolina-endorsement-faces-new-test-in-crowded-senate-race A special election for the late Senator Lindsey Graham's seat has become a test of President Trump's endorsement power, as multiple Republicans challenge the appointed incumbent. Politics John Damon Tue, 21 Jul 2026 09:01:36 GMT https://iowa-news.com/article/former-iowa-star-megan-gustafson-marries-gets-heartfelt-nod-from-hawkeyes-coach-jan-jensen https://iowa-news.com/article/former-iowa-star-megan-gustafson-marries-gets-heartfelt-nod-from-hawkeyes-coach-jan-jensen Former Iowa Hawkeyes star Megan Gustafson married David DiLeo this week, with coach Jan Jensen sharing a heartfelt message. The wedding highlights the lasting bond between the Iowa basketball legend and her mentor. Sports John Damon Tue, 21 Jul 2026 04:00:48 GMT https://iowa-news.com/article/maryland-democrats-block-gop-from-raising-affordability-issues-in-special-session https://iowa-news.com/article/maryland-democrats-block-gop-from-raising-affordability-issues-in-special-session Maryland Democratic leaders are barring Republican lawmakers from introducing legislation on cost-of-living issues during an upcoming special session, limiting debate strictly to a congressional redistricting amendment that critics say is designed to weaken the state's lone Republican seat in the U.S. House. Politics John Damon Tue, 21 Jul 2026 03:00:51 GMT https://iowa-news.com/article/iowas-dj-vonnahme-cracks-top-5-in-national-tight-end-rankings-for-2026 https://iowa-news.com/article/iowas-dj-vonnahme-cracks-top-5-in-national-tight-end-rankings-for-2026 Iowa Hawkeyes tight end DJ Vonnahme has been ranked No. 4 nationally by A to Z Sports in their consensus top 10 tight end rankings for the 2026 season, continuing Iowa's tradition of elite tight end play. Sports John Damon Tue, 21 Jul 2026 02:01:09 GMT https://iowa-news.com/article/iowa-hawkeyes-2026-football-schedule-tough-early-stretch-favorable-finish https://iowa-news.com/article/iowa-hawkeyes-2026-football-schedule-tough-early-stretch-favorable-finish The 2026 Iowa Hawkeyes football schedule features a brutal three-game stretch against Michigan, Ohio State, and Washington, but a favorable second half could set up a strong finish for Kirk Ferentz's squad. Sports John Damon Tue, 21 Jul 2026 01:01:37 GMT https://iowa-news.com/article/nebraska-football-poised-to-surpass-low-expectations-in-2026-heres-why https://iowa-news.com/article/nebraska-football-poised-to-surpass-low-expectations-in-2026-heres-why Nebraska football is set to exceed low expectations in 2026 with a veteran quarterback, revamped offensive line, new defensive scheme, and a favorable schedule. Sports John Damon Tue, 21 Jul 2026 00:01:52 GMT https://iowa-news.com/article/penn-state-defense-preview-key-questions-for-iowa-transfers-in-2026 https://iowa-news.com/article/penn-state-defense-preview-key-questions-for-iowa-transfers-in-2026 As Penn State prepares for the 2026 season, the Nittany Lions' defense faces major questions — especially with several key transfers from Iowa State now in the fold. Sports John Damon Mon, 20 Jul 2026 23:01:30 GMT https://iowa-news.com/article/iowa-mourns-as-third-us-soldier-killed-in-iran-conflict-identified https://iowa-news.com/article/iowa-mourns-as-third-us-soldier-killed-in-iran-conflict-identified Two U.S. soldiers killed in Jordan were identified Monday, and a third soldier's remains have been found. The Iowa connection deepens as the first fatalities of the war involved an Iowa based unit. Politics John Damon Mon, 20 Jul 2026 22:00:55 GMT https://iowa-news.com/article/democrats-israel-divide-exposed-in-house-vote-103-join-gops-massie-to-cut-aid https://iowa-news.com/article/democrats-israel-divide-exposed-in-house-vote-103-join-gops-massie-to-cut-aid A single House vote last week has laid bare a deepening fracture within the Democratic Party over support for Israel, with 103 Democrats joining a Republican-backed amendment to cut $3 billion in military aid. Politics John Damon Mon, 20 Jul 2026 21:01:14 GMT https://iowa-news.com/article/espns-fpi-picks-iowa-as-toss-up-in-illinois-rivalry-hawkeyes-face-big-ten-gauntlet https://iowa-news.com/article/espns-fpi-picks-iowa-as-toss-up-in-illinois-rivalry-hawkeyes-face-big-ten-gauntlet ESPN's FPI gives Iowa a 43.1% chance to beat Illinois in Champaign, calling the rivalry game a toss-up. The Hawkeyes face a tough Big Ten slate but have the defense and coaching to exceed projections. Sports John Damon Mon, 20 Jul 2026 20:00:56 GMT https://iowa-news.com/article/iowa-soldiers-among-first-us-fatalities-in-iran-war https://iowa-news.com/article/iowa-soldiers-among-first-us-fatalities-in-iran-war Two U.S. soldiers died in Jordan from Iranian fire, adding to the 17 American fatalities in the war. For Iowans, the conflict hit home earlier when six soldiers from an Iowa-based unit were killed in Kuwait. Politics John Damon Mon, 20 Jul 2026 19:01:18 GMT https://iowa-news.com/article/iowa-among-27-states-hit-by-cyclospora-linked-iceberg-lettuce-recall https://iowa-news.com/article/iowa-among-27-states-hit-by-cyclospora-linked-iceberg-lettuce-recall Iowa consumers should check their refrigerators after a voluntary recall of iceberg lettuce from Taylor Farms de Mexico expanded to 27 states, with the FDA confirming the recall stands despite a false positive test result. Health John Damon Mon, 20 Jul 2026 18:02:39 GMT https://iowa-news.com/article/iowa-braces-for-triple-threat-heat-dome-toxic-smoke-and-severe-storms https://iowa-news.com/article/iowa-braces-for-triple-threat-heat-dome-toxic-smoke-and-severe-storms Iowa faces a dangerous triple threat this week as a record-breaking heat dome, toxic wildfire smoke, and severe storms all converge on the state. The National Weather Service warns of heat indices above 100 degrees and unhealthy air quality. Environment John Damon Mon, 20 Jul 2026 17:02:25 GMT https://iowa-news.com/article/two-us-soldiers-killed-by-iranian-strikes-in-jordan-identified-iowa-unit-suffered-earlier-losses https://iowa-news.com/article/two-us-soldiers-killed-by-iranian-strikes-in-jordan-identified-iowa-unit-suffered-earlier-losses Two U.S. soldiers killed by Iranian strikes in Jordan have been identified. The deaths come after an earlier attack killed six soldiers from an Iowa-based unit. Politics John Damon Mon, 20 Jul 2026 16:01:05 GMT https://iowa-news.com/article/usda-reorganization-threatens-iowa-agriculture-food-aid-programs https://iowa-news.com/article/usda-reorganization-threatens-iowa-agriculture-food-aid-programs A massive USDA reorganization threatens to cripple food aid and research programs vital to Iowa farmers, as trade talks and legislative battles over consolidation and animal welfare standards intensify. Politics John Damon Mon, 20 Jul 2026 15:01:50 GMT https://iowa-news.com/article/iowa-air-quality-alerts-wildfire-smoke-and-ozone-threaten-health-across-the-state https://iowa-news.com/article/iowa-air-quality-alerts-wildfire-smoke-and-ozone-threaten-health-across-the-state Iowa is under air quality alerts as smoke from Canadian wildfires and summer ozone pollution create unhealthy conditions. Learn where the risks are highest and how to protect your family. Health John Damon Mon, 20 Jul 2026 14:01:00 GMT https://iowa-news.com/article/iowa-high-school-softball-state-tournament-2026-full-schedule-brackets-and-new-double-elimination-fo https://iowa-news.com/article/iowa-high-school-softball-state-tournament-2026-full-schedule-brackets-and-new-double-elimination-fo The Iowa high school softball state tournament kicks off July 20 in Fort Dodge with 40 teams and a new double-elimination format. Get the full schedule, brackets, and championship dates for all five classes. Sports John Damon Mon, 20 Jul 2026 13:01:50 GMT https://iowa-news.com/article/five-hawkeyes-poised-for-breakout-seasons-in-2026 https://iowa-news.com/article/five-hawkeyes-poised-for-breakout-seasons-in-2026 Iowa football has a deep roster in 2026. Here are five under-the-radar Hawkeyes who could become the next breakout stars this season. Sports John Damon Mon, 20 Jul 2026 12:01:31 GMT https://iowa-news.com/article/iowa-bound-defender-parker-evans-among-top-girls-soccer-players-to-watch-in-2026 https://iowa-news.com/article/iowa-bound-defender-parker-evans-among-top-girls-soccer-players-to-watch-in-2026 Parker Evans, a senior defender committed to the University of Iowa, leads a list of top high school girls soccer defenders to watch in 2026. Sports John Damon Mon, 20 Jul 2026 09:01:03 GMT https://iowa-news.com/article/oregon-ducks-face-make-or-break-season-can-dan-lanning-finally-win-the-title https://iowa-news.com/article/oregon-ducks-face-make-or-break-season-can-dan-lanning-finally-win-the-title Oregon Ducks have been close but not champions under Dan Lanning. With a loaded roster and favorable schedule, 2026 may be their year — but they must prove it on the field. Sports John Damon Mon, 20 Jul 2026 08:01:15 GMT https://iowa-news.com/article/17-us-soldiers-killed-in-iran-conflict-including-6-from-iowa-unit https://iowa-news.com/article/17-us-soldiers-killed-in-iran-conflict-including-6-from-iowa-unit 17 US soldiers have died in the Iran conflict, including six from an Iowa-based unit. The latest casualties in Iraq and Jordan raise questions about the war's toll on American families. Politics John Damon Mon, 20 Jul 2026 07:02:25 GMT https://iowa-news.com/article/the-real-story-behind-american-gothic-grant-woods-sister-nan https://iowa-news.com/article/the-real-story-behind-american-gothic-grant-woods-sister-nan Nan Wood Graham, the Iowa farm girl who modeled for 'American Gothic,' was an artist and protector of her brother Grant Wood's legacy. Her story is a testament to Iowa's creative spirit. Arts and Entertainment John Damon Mon, 20 Jul 2026 00:01:45 GMT https://iowa-news.com/article/iowa-state-cyclones-face-massive-rebuild-after-matt-campbell-exodus-to-penn-state https://iowa-news.com/article/iowa-state-cyclones-face-massive-rebuild-after-matt-campbell-exodus-to-penn-state Iowa State football enters a massive rebuild in 2026 after Matt Campbell's departure to Penn State took 23 players and three assistant coaches with him. New coach Jimmy Rogers faces a tough road ahead. Sports John Damon Sun, 19 Jul 2026 23:01:23 GMT https://iowa-news.com/article/aoc-channels-obamas-hope-and-change-message https://iowa-news.com/article/aoc-channels-obamas-hope-and-change-message Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez is borrowing from Barack Obama's playbook, using 'hope and change' rhetoric in Michigan and Montana that could signal a 2028 presidential run. Politics John Damon Sun, 19 Jul 2026 22:00:47 GMT https://iowa-news.com/article/iowa-lettuce-recall-democrats-blame-trump-for-mexico-parasite-outbreak https://iowa-news.com/article/iowa-lettuce-recall-democrats-blame-trump-for-mexico-parasite-outbreak Iowa is among 27 states affected by a voluntary recall of iceberg lettuce linked to a parasite that causes explosive diarrhea. Democrats blame Trump, but the source is a Mexican supplier. Health John Damon Sun, 19 Jul 2026 21:00:51 GMT https://iowa-news.com/article/packers-training-camp-battle-former-iowa-tight-end-luke-lachey-fights-for-roster-spot https://iowa-news.com/article/packers-training-camp-battle-former-iowa-tight-end-luke-lachey-fights-for-roster-spot Former Iowa Hawkeyes tight end Luke Lachey is competing for a roster spot with the Green Bay Packers as a blocking specialist, filling a void left by an injured teammate. Sports John Damon Sun, 19 Jul 2026 20:01:00 GMT