River to River is a conversation about the news — from an Iowa perspective. Together, we dig into the story behind the headlines, talking with newsmakers and a diverse range of experts to find out how the news affects you.
Ben Kieffer hosts this national award-winning program, which takes on challenging topics, explores issues from all sides, frames community problems, and fosters conversation and understanding. On Mondays during the legislative session, join in conversations with lawmakers and those impacted by action at the statehouse. Wednesdays, political analysts from around the state help you dissect the week in politics. And Fridays, we buzz through the week’s biggest news stories during Newsbuzz.
River to River is produced by Matthew Alvarez and Zachary Smith. Our executive producer is Katherine Perkins. Our theme music is by The River Monks.
Call into the live show weekdays from noon to 1 p.m. at 866-780-9100, or email the show's hosts and producers at rivertoriver@iowapublicradio.org. If you miss the show, download the podcast to listen any time.
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A recent report shows an increase not only in alcohol use but also in the number of alcohol-involved deaths. It also details some policy recommendations to reduce these deaths. -
The U.S. Senate voted 64-34 to pass the first major federal gun safety legislation in a generation Tuesday.
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Iowa just became the final state in the nation to criminalize elder abuse.
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Last week, the Iowa Supreme Court reversed a 2018 ruling that affirmed the right to an abortion in the state constitution, as the nation anticipates a reversal of Roe v. Wade after a U.S. Supreme Court draft opinion overturning the right was leaked last May .
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Iowa Public Radio and The Gazette in Cedar Rapids combine forces for a night of political commentary about the most important issues shaping our state and nation.
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Political science professors discuss legislation to address mass shootings and consider if the bipartisan Senate deal is substantial enough.
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An NPR Midwest Newsroom journalist takes a look into a program that gets donated venison into food pantries. The investigation raises questions about the presence of lead shot in donated food and its impact on consumers.
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The U.S. House Select Committee investigating the January 6, 2021 U.S. Capitol attack held its first hearing for the public. Experts weigh in on what they learned from the proceedings.
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While morbid, attempts to kill U.S. presidents have fascinated audiences since the first attempt on Andrew Jackson in 1835. We dig into instances across time and what they signify.
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Political scientists weigh in on the Democratic Senate primary victory for Mike Franken and the voucher bill that pit Republicans against Republicans.