Something's Happening in Iowa | On the Ground with Guest Laura Belin

Joe Trippi is back On the Ground in Iowa with Laura Belin of Bleeding Heartland and Iowa Politics to break down one of the most surprisingly competitive 2026 maps in the country. Laura explains why Iowa’s open Senate and governor’s races are drawing national attention, why Republicans are worried about Ashley Hinson, how Josh Turek has a real path in the Senate race, and why Rob Sand’s organizing machine could change the entire midterm landscape. They also dig into competitive House races, rural backlash, clean water politics, school vouchers, Trump’s underwater approval, and the Democratic turnout operation taking shape across Iowa. Hosted by Joe Trippi. Guest: Laura Belin, Bleeding Heartland / Iowa Politics. 00:00 Welcome Back to Iowa 01:13 Why Iowa’s 2026 Cycle Is So Competitive 02:04 The Open Second District Problem for Republicans 07:45 Iowa Governor’s Race Takes Shape 11:04 Farmers Are Turning on Republicans 13:36 Rob Sand’s Money and Ground Game 17:48 Rob Sand’s Big-Tent Campaign 20:43 Josh Turek vs. Ashley Hinson 23:39 The Libertarian Wild Card in the Senate Race 25:38 Why Hinson Is Already Getting Help 27:48 Josh Turek’s Rural and Health Care Message 30:41 Iowa’s Turnout Problem for Republicans 32:40 Competitive House and Legislative Races 34:33 Attorney General and Secretary of Agriculture Races 37:03 Where to Find Laura Belin