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 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, hear conversations with lawmakers and those impacted by actions at the statehouse. Wednesdays bring in political analysts from around the state to help you dissect the week in politics. And Fridays, we buzz through the week’s biggest news stories.
River to River is produced by Caitlin Troutman, Danielle Gehr and Samantha McIntosh , and our digital producer is Natalie Dunlap. 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 at any time.
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Iowa lawmakers have passed a budget and ended the 2025 legislative session. We take a look at the biggest pieces of legislation that moved through the statehouse this year. -
The 2025 legislative session is now over, and Gov. Kim Reynolds has requested a waiver from the U.S. Department of Agriculture to limit eligible foods for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program in Iowa.
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Federal cuts to the Department of Health and Human Services mean that the Iowa Cancer Registry and Iowa Cancer Consortium could see a budget shortfall July 1.
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The lone statewide-elected Democratic official has thrown his hat in the ring for the race for governor in 2026.
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Cuts to the AmeriCorps program have prompted several lawsuits, and organizations in Iowa are already feeling the impact.
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An Iowa state senator launches a campaign to unseat Rep. Zach Nunn. Iowa lieutenant governor eyes the only Statewide seat held by a Democrat.
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Election official explains what reforms could best bolster elections in the U.S. and abroad.
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Sen. Chuck Grassley responds to recent actions by President Donald Trump's administration and discusses the role of Congress.
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With growing concerns of a recession comes uncertainty about how both producers and consumers will be impacted in Iowa. An economist and others tell us what the future may hold for Iowans.
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Political analysts discuss the top headlines of the week, including Gov. Reynolds' lawsuit against the Des Moines Register, President Trump's first 100 days in office and more.