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Dissecting the Democratic National Convention

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River to River, hosted by Ben Kieffer

A ceasefire in Gaza, abortion, a campaign for change — all that and more are talking points during the DNC.

Professors of political science Jonathan Hassid of Iowa State University and Megan Goldberg of Cornell College analyze the Democratic National Convention in Chicago, and how the Democratic party is running as a party of change while in control of the White House. As the DNC is ongoing, former President Donald Trump is offering counterprogramming in key swing states.

Later in the hour, U.S. House Democrats target two Congressional races in Iowa, and the USDA slams Governor Reynolds’ proposal for child food aid in the state.

Guests:

  • Jonathan Hassid, associate professor of political science, Iowa State University
  • Megan Goldberg, assistant professor of political science, Cornell College
Ben Kieffer is the host of IPR's River to River
Caitlin Troutman is a talk show producer for Iowa Public Radio. She holds a bachelor's degree from William Jewell College. Since 2022, Troutman has worked with IPR's talk team to bring news and features to IPR's listening audience.
Madeleine Willis is IPR's Production Assistant supporting the talk shows and The Sunny Side Project. Willis has experience in audio production, reporting, writing and editing stories and conversations. She's reported and produced conversations on womanhood, sports, and good news from across Iowa. Willis will receive her bachelors degree from the University of Iowa in May 2025.