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 Tue, 21 Jul 2026 10:11:04 GMT Hannibal Media Platform © 2026 Just The News Iowa 60 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 https://iowa-news.com/article/iowa-special-needs-athletes-shine-at-miracle-series-baseball-event https://iowa-news.com/article/iowa-special-needs-athletes-shine-at-miracle-series-baseball-event Hundreds of special needs athletes from six states, including Iowa, competed in the Miracle Series at the Joe Nuxhall Miracle Fields, showcasing the power of inclusive sports and community support. Sports John Damon Sun, 19 Jul 2026 19:01:08 GMT https://iowa-news.com/article/cbs-hit-tracker-drops-its-winning-formula-what-it-means-for-iowa-viewers https://iowa-news.com/article/cbs-hit-tracker-drops-its-winning-formula-what-it-means-for-iowa-viewers CBS's hit drama 'Tracker' has abandoned its original missing-person formula for supernatural plots and family conspiracies. Iowa fans may not recognize the show when Season 4 returns. Arts and Entertainment John Damon Sun, 19 Jul 2026 18:02:45 GMT https://iowa-news.com/article/iowa-mom-finds-friendship-through-app-as-new-report-reveals-93percent-of-mothers-face-burnout https://iowa-news.com/article/iowa-mom-finds-friendship-through-app-as-new-report-reveals-93percent-of-mothers-face-burnout A new report from Peanut finds 93% of mothers are burnt out. An Iowa mom who moved to Boston shares how she found friendship through the app, highlighting the crumbling village many mothers face. Health John Damon Sun, 19 Jul 2026 17:02:09 GMT https://iowa-news.com/article/maine-democrats-scramble-for-senate-candidate-after-implosion https://iowa-news.com/article/maine-democrats-scramble-for-senate-candidate-after-implosion Maine Democrats are scrambling to find a Senate candidate after their nominee imploded. Troy Jackson emerges as frontrunner in a chaotic race against Susan Collins. Politics John Damon Sun, 19 Jul 2026 16:02:02 GMT https://iowa-news.com/article/iowa-under-heat-advisory-as-dangerous-temperatures-sweep-22-states https://iowa-news.com/article/iowa-under-heat-advisory-as-dangerous-temperatures-sweep-22-states Iowa is under a heat advisory as dangerous temperatures sweep 22 states. Heat index values could reach 110 degrees in western and southwest Iowa through Monday night. Health John Damon Sun, 19 Jul 2026 15:01:39 GMT https://iowa-news.com/article/could-the-2008-iowa-hawkeyes-have-made-a-24-team-college-football-playoff-a-look-back-at-a-redemptio https://iowa-news.com/article/could-the-2008-iowa-hawkeyes-have-made-a-24-team-college-football-playoff-a-look-back-at-a-redemptio Could the 2008 Iowa Hawkeyes, led by Shonn Greene and a signature win over Penn State, have made a 24-team College Football Playoff? A look at their redemption season. Sports John Damon Sun, 19 Jul 2026 14:01:15 GMT https://iowa-news.com/article/cyclospora-outbreak-hits-iowa-taylor-farms-recalls-lettuce-walmart-and-taco-bell-pull-products https://iowa-news.com/article/cyclospora-outbreak-hits-iowa-taylor-farms-recalls-lettuce-walmart-and-taco-bell-pull-products A Cyclospora outbreak linked to contaminated iceberg lettuce from Mexico has triggered recalls in 27 states, including Iowa. Walmart and Taco Bell pull products as cases exceed 1,600. Health John Damon Sun, 19 Jul 2026 13:01:34 GMT https://iowa-news.com/article/iowa-hawkeyes-tight-end-zach-ortwerth-poised-for-key-role-in-2026 https://iowa-news.com/article/iowa-hawkeyes-tight-end-zach-ortwerth-poised-for-key-role-in-2026 As the Iowa Hawkeyes count down to their season opener, senior tight end Zach Ortwerth is ready to step into a key role behind DJ Vonnahme in Tim Lester's offense. Sports John Damon Sun, 19 Jul 2026 12:01:35 GMT https://iowa-news.com/article/iowa-recruiting-target-rj-evans-shines-at-adidas-3ssb-championships https://iowa-news.com/article/iowa-recruiting-target-rj-evans-shines-at-adidas-3ssb-championships Iowa basketball target RJ Evans scored 32 points at the adidas 3SSB Championships, while other top prospects shined. Here is what Hawkeye fans need to know. Sports John Damon Sun, 19 Jul 2026 09:01:32 GMT https://iowa-news.com/article/hawaii-supreme-court-justice-launches-unprecedented-attack-on-us-supreme-court-conservatives https://iowa-news.com/article/hawaii-supreme-court-justice-launches-unprecedented-attack-on-us-supreme-court-conservatives A Hawaii Supreme Court justice used a criminal case ruling to launch an unprecedented attack on the U.S. Supreme Court's conservative majority, drawing sharp criticism from legal observers including Iowa's solicitor general. Politics John Damon Sun, 19 Jul 2026 08:01:15 GMT https://iowa-news.com/article/ice-shootings-in-texas-and-maine-spark-outrage-as-iowa-sees-surge-in-immigration-arrests https://iowa-news.com/article/ice-shootings-in-texas-and-maine-spark-outrage-as-iowa-sees-surge-in-immigration-arrests Two ICE shootings in Texas and Maine spark outrage as Iowa sees a surge in targeted arrests at residences under the Trump administration's mass deportation campaign. Politics John Damon Sun, 19 Jul 2026 07:02:47 GMT https://iowa-news.com/article/hawaii-supreme-court-justice-vows-to-defy-scotus-in-scathing-91-page-ruling https://iowa-news.com/article/hawaii-supreme-court-justice-vows-to-defy-scotus-in-scathing-91-page-ruling A Hawaii Supreme Court justice issued a 91-page opinion overturning a conviction and attacking the U.S. Supreme Court's conservative majority, drawing sharp criticism from Iowa Solicitor General Eric Wessan. Politics John Damon Sun, 19 Jul 2026 04:01:00 GMT https://iowa-news.com/article/nebraska-footballs-defensive-line-revival-a-lesson-for-iowa-fans https://iowa-news.com/article/nebraska-footballs-defensive-line-revival-a-lesson-for-iowa-fans As Nebraska football looks to revive its defensive line, Iowa fans can learn from the Huskers' struggles and the importance of development and consistency under Kirk Ferentz. Sports John Damon Sun, 19 Jul 2026 03:01:21 GMT https://iowa-news.com/article/new-mexico-democrat-vows-traditionally-white-outdoor-spaces-will-no-longer-be-white https://iowa-news.com/article/new-mexico-democrat-vows-traditionally-white-outdoor-spaces-will-no-longer-be-white A vulnerable Democrat congressman from New Mexico is facing renewed backlash after unearthed podcast appearances show him repeatedly arguing that outdoor recreation spaces must be racially transformed. Politics John Damon Sun, 19 Jul 2026 02:01:18 GMT https://iowa-news.com/article/ai-predicts-iowa-football-bowl-matchup-vols-vs-hawkeyes-in-citrus-bowl https://iowa-news.com/article/ai-predicts-iowa-football-bowl-matchup-vols-vs-hawkeyes-in-citrus-bowl An AI simulation predicts the Tennessee Volunteers will face the Iowa Hawkeyes in the 2026 Citrus Bowl, with the Vols winning 27-16. The Hawkeyes' defense faces a test against Tennessee's running game. Sports John Damon Sun, 19 Jul 2026 01:01:17 GMT https://iowa-news.com/article/prime-videos-the-boys-ends-its-run-what-it-means-for-iowa-fans-and-the-franchises-future https://iowa-news.com/article/prime-videos-the-boys-ends-its-run-what-it-means-for-iowa-fans-and-the-franchises-future Prime Video's 'The Boys' has ended its five-season run, falling off the global Top 10 chart. For Iowa fans, the show's legacy includes a beloved character from the Hawkeye State. A spinoff, 'Vought Rising,' is coming in 2027. Arts and Entertainment John Damon Sun, 19 Jul 2026 00:02:11 GMT https://iowa-news.com/article/iowa-doctor-flavored-vapes-fueling-pediatric-icu-crisis-lawmakers-must-act https://iowa-news.com/article/iowa-doctor-flavored-vapes-fueling-pediatric-icu-crisis-lawmakers-must-act A University of Iowa pediatrician warns that flavored e-cigarettes are fueling a preventable crisis in Iowa's pediatric ICUs, and calls on lawmakers to take real action in January. Health John Damon Sat, 18 Jul 2026 23:01:31 GMT https://iowa-news.com/article/iowa-nursing-home-fined-dollar6500-after-residents-death-whistleblower-silenced-by-secret-settlement https://iowa-news.com/article/iowa-nursing-home-fined-dollar6500-after-residents-death-whistleblower-silenced-by-secret-settlement A former nursing home aide tried to save a resident's life, was told to keep quiet, and then fired. A secret settlement now hides the full story. Health John Damon Sat, 18 Jul 2026 22:00:40 GMT https://iowa-news.com/article/iowas-josh-dix-payton-sandfort-shine-as-thunder-seek-first-summer-league-win https://iowa-news.com/article/iowas-josh-dix-payton-sandfort-shine-as-thunder-seek-first-summer-league-win Iowa natives Josh Dix and Payton Sandfort lead the Oklahoma City Thunder's final Summer League push against the Brooklyn Nets on Sunday. Sports John Damon Sat, 18 Jul 2026 21:00:46 GMT https://iowa-news.com/article/iowa-among-27-states-affected-by-cyclospora-tainted-iceberg-lettuce-recall https://iowa-news.com/article/iowa-among-27-states-affected-by-cyclospora-tainted-iceberg-lettuce-recall Taylor Farms recalls shredded iceberg lettuce potentially contaminated with cyclospora. Iowa is among 27 states affected. Consumers urged to discard product immediately. Health John Damon Sat, 18 Jul 2026 20:01:15 GMT https://iowa-news.com/article/iceberg-lettuce-recalled-in-iowa-and-26-other-states-over-cyclospora-contamination https://iowa-news.com/article/iceberg-lettuce-recalled-in-iowa-and-26-other-states-over-cyclospora-contamination Taylor Farms recalls iceberg lettuce in 27 states, including Iowa, due to cyclospora contamination. Learn what Iowa consumers need to know about symptoms, risks, and what to do. Health John Damon Sat, 18 Jul 2026 19:01:10 GMT https://iowa-news.com/article/illinois-athletics-report-card-how-the-illini-stack-up-against-iowa-rivals https://iowa-news.com/article/illinois-athletics-report-card-how-the-illini-stack-up-against-iowa-rivals Illinois athletics report card for 2025-26 shows men's basketball earning an A+ with a Final Four run, while softball gets an F for its worst season ever. How do the Illini compare to Iowa rivals? Sports John Damon Sat, 18 Jul 2026 18:03:01 GMT https://iowa-news.com/article/cbs-drama-matlock-sets-up-new-direction-for-season-3-after-explosive-finale https://iowa-news.com/article/cbs-drama-matlock-sets-up-new-direction-for-season-3-after-explosive-finale CBS's hit legal drama 'Matlock' wrapped its second season with a stunning finale that concluded the show's central revenge plot, setting the stage for a dramatically different third season. Arts and Entertainment John Damon Sat, 18 Jul 2026 17:02:29 GMT https://iowa-news.com/article/iowa-football-fans-should-brace-for-a-24-team-playoff-that-wont-fix-anything https://iowa-news.com/article/iowa-football-fans-should-brace-for-a-24-team-playoff-that-wont-fix-anything College football leaders push for a 24-team playoff, but Iowa fans should be skeptical. The expansion is a money grab that won't fix the sport's biggest problems. Sports John Damon Sat, 18 Jul 2026 16:01:23 GMT