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 Thu, 23 Jul 2026 23:37:16 GMT Hannibal Media Platform © 2026 Just The News Iowa 60 https://iowa-news.com/article/opioid-settlement-money-sits-idle-as-iowa-ag-bird-reviews-applications https://iowa-news.com/article/opioid-settlement-money-sits-idle-as-iowa-ag-bird-reviews-applications Iowa AG Brenna Bird has not yet distributed any of the $20 million in opioid settlement funds under her control, more than a year after the law authorizing the spending took effect. Politics John Damon Thu, 23 Jul 2026 23:01:29 GMT https://iowa-news.com/article/trumps-ratepayer-protection-pledge-iowa-data-centers-could-freeze-electricity-rates https://iowa-news.com/article/trumps-ratepayer-protection-pledge-iowa-data-centers-could-freeze-electricity-rates President Trump’s Ratepayer Protection Pledge could freeze electricity rates for Iowans living near AI data centers, requiring Big Tech to pay for power and grid upgrades. Politics John Damon Thu, 23 Jul 2026 22:00:45 GMT https://iowa-news.com/article/alabama-vs-iowa-basketball-game-set-for-des-moines-in-2026-27-season https://iowa-news.com/article/alabama-vs-iowa-basketball-game-set-for-des-moines-in-2026-27-season Alabama basketball will face Iowa in Des Moines on December 21, 2026, as part of a tough non-conference schedule. The game is a key test for both programs. Sports John Damon Thu, 23 Jul 2026 21:00:48 GMT https://iowa-news.com/article/west-bancorporation-beats-q2-earnings-forecast-boosts-dividend-to-record-high https://iowa-news.com/article/west-bancorporation-beats-q2-earnings-forecast-boosts-dividend-to-record-high West Bancorporation reported strong Q2 2026 earnings, beating forecasts and boosting its dividend to a record high. Net income rose 39% with pristine credit quality. Business John Damon Thu, 23 Jul 2026 20:01:13 GMT https://iowa-news.com/article/caitlin-clark-becomes-first-wnba-player-on-global-nba-2k27-cover https://iowa-news.com/article/caitlin-clark-becomes-first-wnba-player-on-global-nba-2k27-cover Caitlin Clark becomes the first WNBA player to appear on her own global NBA 2K cover, marking a historic moment for women's basketball and a proud achievement for Iowa. Sports John Damon Thu, 23 Jul 2026 19:01:12 GMT https://iowa-news.com/article/ankeny-school-district-pays-dollar150k-to-teachers-disciplined-over-student-drag-show https://iowa-news.com/article/ankeny-school-district-pays-dollar150k-to-teachers-disciplined-over-student-drag-show Three Iowa teachers who were suspended for helping students organize a drag show at an Ankeny high school have reached a settlement with the school district, just days before their case was set to go to trial. Politics John Damon Thu, 23 Jul 2026 18:02:42 GMT https://iowa-news.com/article/chuck-grassley-at-92-leads-aging-senate-as-mcconnells-health-sparks-reform-calls https://iowa-news.com/article/chuck-grassley-at-92-leads-aging-senate-as-mcconnells-health-sparks-reform-calls As Mitch McConnell's health absence sparks transparency debate, Iowa's Chuck Grassley at 92 leads the aging Senate. What it means for conservative voters. Politics John Damon Thu, 23 Jul 2026 17:02:13 GMT https://iowa-news.com/article/iowa-leads-the-charge-new-law-caps-classroom-screen-time-for-elementary-students https://iowa-news.com/article/iowa-leads-the-charge-new-law-caps-classroom-screen-time-for-elementary-students Iowa has capped classroom screen time at 60 minutes per day for K-5 students, leading a national push to limit digital instruction and protect young learners. Politics John Damon Thu, 23 Jul 2026 16:01:03 GMT https://iowa-news.com/article/iowa-campers-on-alert-after-venomous-rattlesnake-bite-in-michigan https://iowa-news.com/article/iowa-campers-on-alert-after-venomous-rattlesnake-bite-in-michigan A rattlesnake bite in Michigan has Iowans asking: how to identify the eastern massasauga rattlesnake, the only venomous snake in the Midwest, and what to do if bitten. Environment John Damon Thu, 23 Jul 2026 15:01:40 GMT https://iowa-news.com/article/new-online-tool-helps-iowans-compare-health-insurance-costs-after-layoffs https://iowa-news.com/article/new-online-tool-helps-iowans-compare-health-insurance-costs-after-layoffs A new online tool from Health Insurance Now helps Iowans compare health insurance costs after losing employer-sponsored coverage due to layoffs. The service aims to simplify the transition to individual plans. Health John Damon Thu, 23 Jul 2026 14:01:00 GMT https://iowa-news.com/article/dccc-boosts-iowa-democrat-who-opposed-citizenship-checks-snap-ban-for-illegal-aliens https://iowa-news.com/article/dccc-boosts-iowa-democrat-who-opposed-citizenship-checks-snap-ban-for-illegal-aliens The DCCC elevates Sarah Trone Garriott to its Red to Blue program, but her Iowa Senate record shows opposition to citizenship verification, SNAP restrictions for illegal aliens, and a missed vote on a $4.2 billion property tax cut. Politics John Damon Thu, 23 Jul 2026 13:01:27 GMT https://iowa-news.com/article/iowa-hawkeyes-2026-season-simulated-a-9-4-record-that-feels-all-too-familiar https://iowa-news.com/article/iowa-hawkeyes-2026-season-simulated-a-9-4-record-that-feels-all-too-familiar A new video game simulation of the Iowa Hawkeyes' 2026 season projects a 9-4 record with a bowl victory, a result that aligns closely with the realistic expectations for Kirk Ferentz's squad. Sports John Damon Thu, 23 Jul 2026 12:01:31 GMT https://iowa-news.com/article/asian-street-food-festival-expanding-to-iowa-minnesota-event-heads-to-milwaukee https://iowa-news.com/article/asian-street-food-festival-expanding-to-iowa-minnesota-event-heads-to-milwaukee A popular Minnesota-based Asian street food festival is expanding to Milwaukee, with Iowa vendors expected to participate. Could Iowa be next? Arts and Entertainment John Damon Thu, 23 Jul 2026 09:01:10 GMT https://iowa-news.com/article/new-precision-irrigation-network-connects-iowa-dealers-to-soybean-growers-seeking-cost-share-funding https://iowa-news.com/article/new-precision-irrigation-network-connects-iowa-dealers-to-soybean-growers-seeking-cost-share-funding Iowa precision irrigation dealers can now connect directly with soybean growers through a new AguaFox network, with EQIP cost-share funding covering up to 75% of installation costs. Business John Damon Thu, 23 Jul 2026 08:01:36 GMT https://iowa-news.com/article/new-fox-news-poll-shows-voters-crave-major-change-economic-relief https://iowa-news.com/article/new-fox-news-poll-shows-voters-crave-major-change-economic-relief A new Fox News poll shows deep voter discontent with the economy and both parties, with 70% saying the GOP is tied to elite interests and 85% backing a mandatory retirement age for Congress. For Iowa, the findings highlight economic frustration and a desire for change. Politics John Damon Thu, 23 Jul 2026 07:02:43 GMT https://iowa-news.com/article/trump-stumps-for-gop-senate-candidate-in-georgia-touts-trump-accounts-and-election-integrity https://iowa-news.com/article/trump-stumps-for-gop-senate-candidate-in-georgia-touts-trump-accounts-and-election-integrity President Trump rallied in Georgia for GOP Senate candidate Mike Collins, touting Trump Accounts, election integrity, and economic wins. The race has major implications for Iowa and the Senate majority. Politics John Damon Thu, 23 Jul 2026 04:01:19 GMT https://iowa-news.com/article/iowa-hunger-summit-at-20-bipartisan-leaders-say-fighting-hunger-can-still-unite-a-divided-nation https://iowa-news.com/article/iowa-hunger-summit-at-20-bipartisan-leaders-say-fighting-hunger-can-still-unite-a-divided-nation Former governors Branstad and Vilsack join Ambassador Quinn to mark 20 years of the Iowa Hunger Summit, arguing that fighting hunger through agriculture can still bridge political divides. Politics John Damon Thu, 23 Jul 2026 03:00:45 GMT https://iowa-news.com/article/cubs-minor-league-signing-hints-at-big-trade-deadline-moves-impact-on-iowa-cubs https://iowa-news.com/article/cubs-minor-league-signing-hints-at-big-trade-deadline-moves-impact-on-iowa-cubs The Chicago Cubs signed outfielder Greg Jones to a minor league deal, signaling potential trade deadline moves that could impact the Iowa Cubs and top prospect Kevin Alcantara. Sports John Damon Thu, 23 Jul 2026 02:01:02 GMT https://iowa-news.com/article/wisconsin-vs-iowa-minnesota-the-games-that-define-a-season-for-badgers-football https://iowa-news.com/article/wisconsin-vs-iowa-minnesota-the-games-that-define-a-season-for-badgers-football Wisconsin's 2026 football season hinges on rivalry wins over Iowa and Minnesota. Luke Fickell must reclaim the Axe and the Badgers' identity. Sports John Damon Thu, 23 Jul 2026 01:01:35 GMT https://iowa-news.com/article/anniston-cracks-down-on-problem-bars-with-new-safety-rules https://iowa-news.com/article/anniston-cracks-down-on-problem-bars-with-new-safety-rules The Anniston City Council approved new regulations for bars and alcohol-serving businesses, creating a process to declare chronic public nuisances and impose penalties including license suspension or revocation. Politics John Damon Thu, 23 Jul 2026 00:01:35 GMT https://iowa-news.com/article/usa-sports-brings-nascars-the-chase-back-to-iowa-with-new-broadcast-plans https://iowa-news.com/article/usa-sports-brings-nascars-the-chase-back-to-iowa-with-new-broadcast-plans USA Sports announced its broadcast plans for the final 14 NASCAR Cup Series races, including the return of 'The Chase' and a new documentary debuting after the Iowa race in August. Sports John Damon Wed, 22 Jul 2026 23:01:13 GMT https://iowa-news.com/article/trump-stumps-for-collins-in-georgia-highlights-trump-accounts-and-iran-war-costs https://iowa-news.com/article/trump-stumps-for-collins-in-georgia-highlights-trump-accounts-and-iran-war-costs President Trump rallied in Georgia for Senate candidate Mike Collins, promoted his Trump Accounts program, and defended the Iran war as costs mount. Politics John Damon Wed, 22 Jul 2026 22:00:51 GMT https://iowa-news.com/article/trump-appointed-judge-deals-major-blow-to-administrations-sanctuary-city-crackdown-in-minnesota-ruli https://iowa-news.com/article/trump-appointed-judge-deals-major-blow-to-administrations-sanctuary-city-crackdown-in-minnesota-ruli A Trump-appointed judge threw out the DOJ's lawsuit against Minnesota's sanctuary policies, ruling states cannot be forced to help enforce federal immigration law. The decision could have implications for Iowa. Politics John Damon Wed, 22 Jul 2026 21:00:52 GMT https://iowa-news.com/article/reynolds-iowa-foster-kids-can-now-keep-survivor-benefits-for-their-future https://iowa-news.com/article/reynolds-iowa-foster-kids-can-now-keep-survivor-benefits-for-their-future Governor Kim Reynolds announced Iowa will let foster children keep Social Security survivor benefits for their own future, aligning with a national initiative led by First Lady Melania Trump to strengthen support for foster families. Politics John Damon Wed, 22 Jul 2026 20:01:04 GMT https://iowa-news.com/article/des-moines-airport-joins-push-to-privatize-tsa-security-under-trump-program https://iowa-news.com/article/des-moines-airport-joins-push-to-privatize-tsa-security-under-trump-program Des Moines International Airport is exploring privatizing TSA security checkpoints under a new Trump-backed program, aiming for faster screening and fewer disruptions from government shutdowns. Politics John Damon Wed, 22 Jul 2026 19:01:25 GMT https://iowa-news.com/article/north-polk-softball-season-ends-in-heartbreaking-2-1-loss-to-fort-dodge-at-state-tournament https://iowa-news.com/article/north-polk-softball-season-ends-in-heartbreaking-2-1-loss-to-fort-dodge-at-state-tournament The North Polk Comets saw their season end in a 2-1 loss to Fort Dodge at the Iowa high school state softball tournament. Despite a strong defensive effort, the Comets could not overcome a two-run deficit, finishing with a 21-18 record. Sports John Damon Wed, 22 Jul 2026 18:02:35 GMT https://iowa-news.com/article/maine-senate-race-a-toss-up-as-collins-faces-new-democrat-challenger https://iowa-news.com/article/maine-senate-race-a-toss-up-as-collins-faces-new-democrat-challenger Maine's Senate race is now a toss up after Democrats replaced their scandal plagued nominee with a progressive former state senator, a development that could have ripple effects for Iowa's own Senate contest. Politics John Damon Wed, 22 Jul 2026 17:02:23 GMT https://iowa-news.com/article/caitlin-clark-says-no-to-2026-wnba-3-point-contest-fans-react https://iowa-news.com/article/caitlin-clark-says-no-to-2026-wnba-3-point-contest-fans-react Caitlin Clark turns down the 2026 WNBA 3-Point Contest for the third straight year, sparking fan reactions. The former Hawkeyes star prioritizes health over spectacle. Sports John Damon Wed, 22 Jul 2026 16:00:59 GMT 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