© 2026 Iowa Public Radio
Play Live Radio
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
0:00 0:00
Available On Air Stations

It's almost soapbox time

Ways To Subscribe
River to River, hosted by Ben Kieffer

A progressive won Michigan's Democratic Senate primary. On this episode, what that may mean for the midterms.

We get analysis from political scientists Sara Mitchell of the University of Iowa and Dave Peterson of Iowa State University. We also discuss the Iowa State Fair's Political Soapbox schedule, the outside groups funding Iowa's Senate race, how President Trump’s approval rating may impact Republican candidates and more.

Guests:

  • Sara Mitchell, professor and collegiate fellow, University of Iowa
  • Dave Peterson, Lucken Professor of Political Science, Iowa State University
Ben Kieffer is the host of "River to River." Since 2007, Kieffer has interviewed, conversed with, and shared ideas from guests of all backgrounds and locations, and has helped listeners better understand, appreciate, and explore their state and the world around them. Kieffer has a bachelor's degree from the University of Iowa.
Caitlin Troutman is an award-winning 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.
Neve Kelley is IPR's talk show production assistant. She recently graduated from Oberlin College, where she studied English, environmental studies, writing and communication. She is originally from Peoria, Illinois. She uses her passion for community-centered storytelling to showcase the people, culture and arts that shape Iowa. Some of her favorite things to do in Iowa include going to shows at Codfish Hollow and the Englert, visiting different coffee shops and taking yoga classes.
More Stories Like This