Voting

In this archive episode, host Ben Kieffer speaks with two members of the 'Planet Money team' about their new book. Then, the SAVE America Act has been called the most sweeping change to American voting law in decades if it goes into effect. Supporters say it's about election security, while critics say it could disenfranchise eligible voters. Guests explore what the legislation would it actually mean for Iowans at the polls and for the people who run our elections. (This show was originally produced April 7, 2026.)

A progressive won Michigan's Democratic Senate primary. Political scientists Sara Mitchell and Dave Peterson discuss what that may mean for the midterms, plus 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.

The Iowa Democratic Party and the Republican Party of Iowa both gained voters over the past month, while the number of voters with no party affiliation dropped significantly.

Headlines from this week, including a Supreme Court ruling related to Roundup weed killer, a new law concerning medication abortion access and more.

Before heading to the polls on June 2 to cast your ballot for the 2026 primary election, check our voter guide to see who’s running in major races in Iowa and for other important voter registration information.

On this archive episode we weigh the strengths and vulnerabilities of our current election infrastructure. David Levine, a senior fellow at University of Maryland’s Center for Democracy and Civic Engagement joins the program to discuss election integrity in the United States and internationally, threats to democracy and ways to improve the election process. (This episode was originally produced in May 2025.)