Midwest Newsroom

Even in the Midwest, the cost of life’s essentials is going up. Rising everyday expenses, including food, energy and transportation, are straining household budgets. We invite you to share how you are affording life in 2026 in a short survey.

Many Midwest residents distrust their tap water. Some purchase water and ice from standalone kiosks. University of Iowa researchers found at least trace levels of lead in most of these kiosks.

The national governing body for gymnastics said it made the unusual move to terminate GAGE's membership because of allegations that coaches were not complying with the terms of their suspensions tied to claims of abuse.

As Iowa’s rural communities age and young people continue to leave, immigrants are fueling population growth. Data shows that one year of Trump administration immigration enforcement policies have affected that growth.

Tariffs are a key component of the Trump administration’s policy to revive the U.S. economy. So far, the strategy of taxing trading partners is not working as promised in Nebraska.

Performance venues and cultural organizations are seeing a spike in artists from abroad canceling performances and demonstrations — and rethinking U.S. tours.

Como parte del esfuerzo para reducir la fuerza laboral federal prometido por el presidente, los trabajadores perdieron sus empleos. Los expertos afirman que el impacto será de gran alcance para la economía de la región y para las personas que dependen de los servicios federales.

The workers lost their jobs as part of the president’s promised federal workforce reduction effort. Experts say the impact will be far-reaching for the region’s economy and for people who rely on federal services.

As of Dec. 30, there were 46 high wind warnings in Nebraska in 2025. That count ties the record high since the agency started keeping track of that statistic 20 years ago.

As job creation slowed through most of 2025, Midwestern college graduates — and those approaching graduation — describe a competitive, unusual job market that makes them question their self-worth.