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The independent newspaper of the University of Iowa community since 1868

The Daily Iowan
The independent newspaper of the University of Iowa community since 1868

The Daily Iowan
Roxy Ekberg

Roxy Ekberg, Politics Editor

(she/her/hers)

Roxy Ekberg is a second-year at the University of Iowa. In the Honors Program, she is double majoring in journalism and political science. Prior to her role as Politics Editor, she worked as a news reporter at The Daily Iowan and worked at her local newspaper The Wakefield Republican.

All content by Roxy Ekberg
U.S. Sen. Joni Ernst answers questions during an interview at the Russel Senate Office Building in Washington D.C. on Wednesday, April 10, 2024.

FAFSA to be released by Oct. 1 under new law

Roxy Ekberg, Politics Editor
December 12, 2024
Incoming Iowa House Representative Aime Wichtendahl speaks with attendees at a human rights protest at Greene Square Park in Cedar Rapids on Dec. 8. “I know this next year will be difficult,” Wichtendahl said. “I will be fighting every single day that I can, because at the end of the day, I still believe that Iowa is still my home.”

Iowa’s first transgender legislator Aime Wichtendahl shares her historic path to the statehouse

Roxy Ekberg, Politics Editor
December 10, 2024
Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds speaks during Reynolds’ annual Harvest Festival at the Elwell Family Food Center on the Iowa State Fairgrounds in Des Moines on Saturday, Oct. 14, 2023.

Reynolds, Iowa Department of Education invest over $3.5 million for take-home book packs

Roxy Ekberg, Politics Editor
December 2, 2024
(Left) Christina Bohannan listens to roundtable members during the Johnson County Affordable Housing Coalition Housing Policy Roundtable at the Iowa City Public Library on Wednesday, Oct. 23, 2024. Members of the roundtable discussed local, state, and federal policies surrounding Iowa's affordable housing crisis. (Right) Mariannette Miller-Meeks answers questions during an interview at the Longworth House Office Building in Washington D.C. on Tuesday, April 9, 2024.

Recount confirms Republican Miller-Meeks wins 1st Congressional District

Roxy Ekberg, Politics Editor
November 27, 2024
(Left) Christina Bohannan listens to roundtable members during the Johnson County Affordable Housing Coalition Housing Policy Roundtable at the Iowa City Public Library on Wednesday, Oct. 23, 2024. Members of the roundtable discussed local, state, and federal policies surrounding Iowa's affordable housing crisis. (Right) Mariannette Miller-Meeks answers questions during an interview at the Longworth House Office Building in Washington D.C. on Tuesday, April 9, 2024.

Observers from D.C. head to Iowa’s 1st Congressional District for recount

Roxy Ekberg, Politics Editor
November 19, 2024
Former President Donald Trump speaks during his caucus night watch party at the Iowa Events Center in Des Moines on Monday, Jan. 15, 2024.

Voters’ dissatisfaction with the economy ushered Trump’s win, Republican swing nationwide

Roxy Ekberg, Politics Editor
November 19, 2024
Congresswoman Mariannette Miller-Meeks announces her victory at Riverside Casino & Golf Resort on Election Day in Riverside, Iowa on Tuesday, Nov. 5, 2024. Republican Incumbent Miller-Meeks appeared to win the election for Iowa’s First Congressional District against Democratic Candidate Christina Bohannan in a close race Tuesday night.

Miller-Meeks announces bid for House GOP Conference Secretary

Roxy Ekberg, Politics Editor
November 12, 2024
Former President Donald Trump speaks during Trump’s Commit to Caucus Rally at Des Moines Area Community College in Newton, Iowa on Saturday, Jan. 6, 2024. The Iowa caucuses take place on Jan. 15. Three years earlier on Jan. 6, 2021, Trump supporters stormed the capitol to stop the certification of President Joe Biden’s victory in the 2020 election.

‘Absolute gut punch:’ Iowa Democrats react to Trump’s win

Roxy Ekberg, Politics Editor
November 8, 2024
Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds speaks during Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis' Caucus Night Watch Party at the Sheraton in West Des Moines on Monday, Jan. 15, 2024. Republican voters assembled statewide to participate in the caucuses despite the cold and extreme winter weather across the state. Former President Donald Trump won the caucuses in a dominant and early fashion with 51 percent support from Republicans while DeSantis trailed in second with 21 percent as of 11:15 p.m. Around 250 people showed up to listen to DeSantis. (Ayrton Breckenridge/The Daily Iowan)

Iowa to host “Great American State Fair”

Roxy Ekberg, Politics Editor
November 7, 2024
Students line up to vote at Wisconsin Conservatory of Lifelong Learning on Election Day in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, on Tuesday, Nov. 5, 2024. an essential role in the outcome. The Conservatory of Lifelong Learning is one of five major polling stations that support the campus community. As of 2023, Milwaukee's population is 561,385.

2024 election reaches second-highest voter turnout in the past century

Roxy Ekberg, Politics Editor
November 6, 2024
Former President Donald Trump speaks during Trump’s Commit to Caucus Rally at Des Moines Area Community College in Newton, Iowa on Jan. 6, 2024. Donald Trump received the nomination at the Republican National Convention on Monday, July 15.

Donald Trump wins second term

Liam Halawith and Roxy Ekberg
November 6, 2024
A volunteer at Elkhorn City Hall holds up an informational sign on Election Day in Elkhorn, Wisconsin, on Tuesday, Nov. 5, 2024. As of 2023, Elkhorn has a population of 10,230 people. Elkhorn City Hall has been the polling location for City of Elkhorn residents as of 2022, accommodating all size elections. Polls in the city hall opened at 7:00 a.m. and close at 8:00 p.m.

UI alums notice closed political dialogue in Wisconsin

Roxy Ekberg, Politics Editor
November 6, 2024
Gov. Kim Reynolds gives a speech at U.S. Sen. Joni Ernst’s annual Roast and Ride fundraiser at the Iowa State Fairgrounds in Des Moines on Saturday, June 1, 2024.

Iowa GOP reacts to Trump’s win in the state

Roxy Ekberg, Politics Editor
November 5, 2024
Former President Donald Trump speaks during his caucus night watch party at the Iowa Events Center in Des Moines on Monday, Jan. 15, 2024.

Donald Trump wins Iowa

Liam Halawith and Roxy Ekberg
November 5, 2024
A man is fills out his ballot in Elkhorn City Hall on Election Day in Elkhorn, Wisconsin, on Tuesday, Nov. 5, 2024. As of 2023, Elkhorn has a population of 10,230 people. Elkhorn City Hall has been the polling location for City of Elkhorn residents as of 2022, accommodating all size elections. Polls in the city hall opened at 7:00 a.m. and close at 8:00 p.m.

Wisconsin voters stream to the polls

Roxy Ekberg, Politics Editor
November 5, 2024
Mayor Pro Tem Mazahir Salih asks a clarifying question about the Burlington Street bridge project during a City Council meeting at the Iowa City City Hall in Iowa City on Sept. 17. Salih expressed worries about a second term under former President Donald Trump and its impacts on immigration.

As political tensions flare on immigration, voters pin it as a top issue

Roxy Ekberg, Politics Editor
October 29, 2024
(Left) Rep. Mariannette Miller-Meeks, R-Iowa, announces she is seeking reelection in Iowa’s 1st Congressional District during a press conference at Dahl Old Car Home in Davenport on Wednesday, Nov. 10, 2021. (Right) Rep. Christina Bohannan poses for a portrait outside the Iowa State Capitol in Des Moines, Iowa, on Tuesday, Jan. 12, 2021.

UI requests cease and desist against Bohannan for trademark infringement

Roxy Ekberg, Politics Editor
October 25, 2024
(Left) Rep. Mariannette Miller-Meeks, R-Iowa, announces she is seeking reelection in Iowa’s 1st Congressional District during a press conference at Dahl Old Car Home in Davenport on Wednesday, Nov. 10, 2021. (Right) Rep. Christina Bohannan poses for a portrait outside the Iowa State Capitol in Des Moines, Iowa, on Tuesday, Jan. 12, 2021.

Abortion becomes potent political issue as general election approaches candidates capitalize on the issue

Roxy Ekberg, Politics Editor
October 22, 2024
Local Democrats watch a debate between Christina Bohannan and U.S. Rep. Mariannette Miller-Meeks at Sanctuary Pub in Iowa City on Monday, Oct. 21, 2024. The watch party drew a packed crowd as eager voters listened to candidates for Iowa's 1st congressional District.

Bohannan, Miller-Meeks square off in testy debate on abortion, immigration

Roxy Ekberg and Liam Halawith
October 21, 2024
(Left) Rep. Mariannette Miller-Meeks, R-Iowa, announces she is seeking reelection in Iowa’s 1st Congressional District during a press conference at Dahl Old Car Home in Davenport on Wednesday, Nov. 10, 2021. (Right) Rep. Christina Bohannan poses for a portrait outside the Iowa State Capitol in Des Moines, Iowa, on Tuesday, Jan. 12, 2021.

Miller-Meeks campaign urges UI to act against Bohannan’s alleged trademark infringement

Roxy Ekberg, Politics Editor
October 21, 2024
US Representative Mariannette Miller-Meeks speaks at a rally at the American Legion Auxiliary in Walcott, Iowa on Saturday, Oct. 12, 2024. Miller-Meeks is running for reelection in Iowa’s 1st Congressional District. There are currently 212 Democrats and 220 Republicans serving in the House.

Miller-Meeks rallies voters in increasingly close race

Roxy Ekberg, Politics Editor
October 12, 2024
Attendees gather around a memorial during a vigil demonstration on the Pentacrest in Iowa City on Friday, Oct. 11, 2024. More than two dozen people were gathered on Clinton Street.

Iowa City vigil honors lives of those killed in Gaza

Roxy Ekberg, Politics Editor
October 11, 2024
U.S. Rep. Mariannette Miller-Meeks speaks at a Wilton Back The Blue Rally at Axe & Oak Whiskey House on Oct. 9. Alongside Miller-Meeks, U.S. Senator Joni Ernst and Iowa Attorney General Brenna Bird spoke on the upcoming election.

Miller-Meeks talks border security at ‘Back the Blue’ event Wednesday

Roxy Ekberg, Politics Editor
October 9, 2024
Annie Galloway speaks during a Body Freedom panel accompanying a Body Freedom For Every(Body) art exhibit at Public Space One in Iowa City on Sept. 18. The art exhibit truck started in Brooklyn and aims to travel across the country sharing intersectional activism in the form of over 125 artist pieces.

OB-GYN students opt for residency programs in states without abortion bans

Roxy Ekberg, Politics Editor
October 8, 2024
Ian Haworth speaks during the Young Americans for Freedom sponsored event in the Iowa Memorial Union’s North Room on Monday, Oct. 7, 2024. Haworth is a conservative writer and podcast host.

Campus conservative group hosts pro-Israel speaker one year after Hamas attack

Liam Halawith and Roxy Ekberg
October 7, 2024
Guests speak during a Johnson County Democrats Vice Presidential Watch Party at Field Day Brewery in North Liberty, Iowa on Tuesday, Oct. 1, 2024. State and county elected democrat officials gathered to watch and converse.

Abortion, immigration takes center stage at Tuesday night vice presidential debate

Liam Halawith and Roxy Ekberg
October 1, 2024
Activists raise signs during a pro-Palestine protest in solidarity with Lebanon on the Pentacrest in Iowa City on Tuesday, Sept. 24, 2024. Protesters held signs, chanted, and listened to speakers on the side of N. Clinton St.

Pro-Palestine protesters gathered in support of Lebanon

Roxy Ekberg, Politics Editor
September 24, 2024

Iowa AG Brenna Bird leads coalition supporting lawsuit against national pro-Palestinian groups

Roxy Ekberg, Politics Editor
September 24, 2024
General view of the Marriner S. Eccles Federal Reserve Board Building. The building houses the main offices of the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System. It is located at 20th Street and Constitution Avenue, N.W. The federal reserve recently cut interest rates by 50 basis points.

The Fed slashed interest rates by a half point. What does that mean?

Roxy Ekberg, Politics Editor
September 18, 2024
(Left) U.S. Sen. Joni Ernst answers questions during an interview at the Russel Senate Office Building in Washington D.C. on Wednesday, April 10, 2024. (Right) U.S. Sen. Chuck Grassley answers questions during an interview at the Hart Senate Office Building in Washington D.C. on Monday, April 8, 2024.

Iowa U.S. GOP senators vote against advancement of IVF protection bill

Roxy Ekberg, Politics Editor
September 17, 2024
Pantry volunteer Becky Hays checks bread for mold before the opening of the North Liberty Food Pantry on Sept. 5, 2024. Food pantries around Iowa saw increased usage over the summer.

Iowa’s food pantries hit record high numbers this summer

Roxy Ekberg, Politics Editor
September 17, 2024
State Auditor Rob Sand speaks to the Iowa City community at City Hall on Thursday, Sept. 7, 2023. Sand recently released a report on Iowa nursing homes that pointed to high employee turnover rates and the failure to meet federal mandates on inspections of Medicare or Medicaid-certified nursing homes.

Iowa fails to meet federal mandate on nursing home inspections

Roxy Ekberg, Politics Editor
September 16, 2024
Attendees watch the 2024 Presidential debate during a watch party at The Airliner in Iowa City on Tuesday, Sept. 10, 2024. The watch party was hosted by the Eastern Iowa Young Republicans

Harris, Trump clash on abortion, immigration in testy debate Tuesday

Liam Halawith and Roxy Ekberg
September 11, 2024
A sign sits on the T. Anne Cleary Walkway on Sept. 5.

Iowa’s voter registration totals rebound

Liam Halawith and Roxy Ekberg
September 10, 2024
Former Iowa Attorney General Matthew Whitaker, Iowa Rep. Marianette Miller-Meeks and Utah Rep. Burgess Owens during the fourth annual “Triple M” Tailgate featuring Iowa Rep. Mariannette Miller-Meeks at Streb Construction in Iowa City on Saturday, Sept. 7, 2024. Miller-Meeks recently introduced legislation providing fully refundable tax credit for in vitro fertilization treatments.

Miller-Meeks introduces refundable tax credit for IVF

Roxy Ekberg, Politics Editor
September 9, 2024
Iowa Rep. Marianette Miller-Meeks speaks during the fourth annual “Triple M” Tailgate at Streb Construction in Iowa City on Saturday, Sept. 7, 2024. A small contingent of pro-Palestine protesters demonstrated outside while three activists disrupted the event from inside. Rep. Miller-Meeks will be running against former University of Iowa Law professor Christina Bohannon for Iowa’s 1st congressional district.

Iowa Republicans push for support, unified party at Miller-Meeks fundraising event

Roxy Ekberg, Politics Editor
September 7, 2024
The University of Iowa's College of Law is seen Thursday, Sept. 17, 2020.

Iowa Supreme Court hears first case of the year on UI campus

Roxy Ekberg, Politics Editor
September 6, 2024
Van Allen Hall is seen on Monday, November 18, 2019. Van Allen is the home of the physics and astronomy department.

UI employee found to have diverted almost $1 million to personal bank account

Roxy Ekberg, Politics Editor
September 4, 2024
Allison and Cale Bierman pose for a portrait at Allison Bierman’s mothers home in Iowa City on Wednesday, Aug. 28, 2024. On July 29, 2024, a near total ban on abortion went into effect in Iowa. Bierman has been outspoken in the Johnson County about her support for IVF treatment and abortion access, after experiencing an ectopic pregnancy.

Iowa abortion providers navigate near-total abortion ban

Roxy Ekberg, Politics Editor
September 3, 2024
Adam Gregg takes notes during his visit with Rantizo in downtown Iowa City on Feb. 25, 2019.

Lt. Gov. Adam Gregg steps down to focus on family

Roxy Ekberg, Politics Editor
September 3, 2024
Delegates and other attendees wait outside of the safety perimeter of the United Center during the second day of the Democratic National Convention in Chicago on Tuesday, Aug. 20, 2024. Protesters also gathered around the outside of the perimeter.

Vice President Kamala Harris reenergizes Democrats after President Joe Biden’s exit

Liam Halawith and Roxy Ekberg
August 27, 2024
U.S. Rep. Mariannette Miller-Meeks answers questions during an interview at the Longworth House Office Building in Washington D.C. on Tuesday, April 9, 2024.

Miller-Meeks aids in securing nearly $1.5 million award for UI

Roxy Ekberg, Politics Editor
August 23, 2024
Vice President Kamala Harris speaks at the Harris for President Campaign Rally at West Allis Central High School in West Allis on July 23. Harris has been backed by Iowa's entire Democratic National Convention delegation.

Harris makes forceful statement on Israel-Hamas conflict in presidential nomination acceptance speech

Roxy Ekberg, Politics Editor
August 23, 2024
Kathleen McColaugh of Chicago offers Minnesota Governor Tim Walz a shot at a tailgate before the Iowa football game against No. 7-ranked Minnesota on Saturday, Nov. 16, 2019. Governor Walz, who campaigned on behalf of Sen. Amy Klobuchar, D-MINN., turned down the shot, “but they kept it,” McColaugh noted, joking that maybe he could enjoy it later. (Jenna Galligan/The Daily Iowan)

‘It’s weird:’ Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz accepts nomination for Vice President, warns of Trump’s agenda

Roxy Ekberg, Politics Editor
August 21, 2024
President Barack Obama discusses energy plans during his visit to Newton, Iowa at the Trinity Structural Towers on April 22, 2009. The warehouse was once occupied by Maytag before it closed in 2006 and then was bought by Whirlpool.

Obamas back Vice President Kamala Harris at Democratic National Convention

Roxy Ekberg, Politics Editor
August 20, 2024
Children play in a fountain during day eight of the Iowa State Fair at the Iowa state fairgrounds in Des Moines on Thursday, Aug. 15, 2024.

Iowa State Fair brings nostalgia, new experiences to fairgoers

Roxy Ekberg, Politics Editor
August 20, 2024
Fairgoers buy food from stands during day eight of the Iowa State Fair at the Iowa state fairgrounds in Des Moines on Thursday, August. 15, 2024.

Food vendors dish out fair staples, elevated recipes at the Iowa State Fair

Roxy Ekberg, Politics Editor
August 16, 2024
Iowa delegates Jeanita McNulty, Teresa Horton Bumgarner, and David Barker pose for portraits at the Residence Inn during the third day of the 2024 Republican National Convention in Milwaukee, WI on Wednesday, July 17, 2024.

Iowa Republicans honored and excited to serve as delegates at Republican National Convention

Roxy Ekberg, Politics Reporter
July 18, 2024
Community members talk and do crafts in Lindsey Park, Milwaukee during the third day of The Great Milwaukee Block Party in Milwaukee, WI on Wednesday, July 17, 2024. The block party was organized as a “joyful rebellion” against the 2024 Republican National Convention. The rebellion featured events at local businesses and recreational areas.

Unhappy with designated zones, demonstrators opt for other locations in Milwaukee

Roxy Ekberg, Politics Reporter
July 17, 2024
The pedestrian restricted zone is seen during the second day of the 2024 Republican National Convention in Milwaukee on Tuesday, July 16, 2024. The four-day convention featured speeches from two Iowan delegates, Brenna Bird and Jeff Kaufman.

Milwaukee draws contradictory crowd on second day of the Republican National Convention

Roxy Ekberg, Politics Reporter
July 16, 2024
July 13, 2024; Milwaukee, WI, USA; Secret Service officers approach Fiserv Forum in preparation for the Republican National Convention. Mandatory Credit: Jasper Colt-USA TODAY

Iowa Republicans, Milwaukee prepare for Republican National Convention

Liam Halawith and Roxy Ekberg
July 14, 2024
Maci Arjes, the club secretary for UI College Republicans and VP of events for Turning Point USA, is seen at the Tippie College of Business in Iowa City, Iowa, on Tuesday April 23, 2024.

Political passion outside of UI student’s career goals

Roxy Ekberg, Politics Reporter
May 7, 2024
Attendees listen to a reading during a three-day solidarity event on the Pentacrest in Iowa City on Friday, May 3, 2024. This demonstration was organized by the Iowa City Students for Justice in Palestine.

Pro-Palestine supporters organize on Pentacrest for three-day solidarity event

Shreya Reddy and Roxy Ekberg
May 3, 2024
Lawmakers sit in the house chamber during the first day of the 2024 Iowa legislative session at the Iowa State Capitol in Des Moines on Monday, Jan. 8, 2024.

Repeal of gender balance law threatens Iowa women’s future in politics, experts say

Roxy Ekberg, Politics Reporter
April 30, 2024
City High School seniors Penelope Wilmoth and Vivian Shields yell a chant during a pro-Palestinian demonstration to demand a ceasefire in the Israel-Hamas War at the Courtyard by Marriott in Iowa City, Iowa, on Sunday, April 28, 2024. Hundreds of pro-Palestinian supporters from Iowans for Palestine and several other activist groups demonstrated outside while U.S. House Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., and U.S. Rep. Mariannette Miller-Meeks, R-Iowa, spoke inside the hotel for a campaign fundraiser.

Pro-Palestine protesters call on Miller-Meeks, Speaker Johnson for an end of U.S. aid to Israel

Roxy Ekberg, Politics Reporter
April 28, 2024
Speaker of the House, Pat Grassley, R-New Hartford, looks over documents during the first day of the 2024 Iowa legislative session at the Iowa State Capitol in Des Moines on Monday, Jan. 8, 2024. Grassley has been in the house since 2007.

Iowa lawmakers gaveled out the session Saturday, here’s how leaders’ priorities fared

Roxy Ekberg, Politics Reporter
April 20, 2024
The U.S. Capitol is seen in Washington D.C. on Tuesday, April 9, 2024.

While border crossings remain high, Iowa’s federal delegation talks solutions

Roxy Ekberg, Politics Reporter
April 10, 2024
Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds talks with supporters after the 2023 Thanksgiving Family Forum hosted by The FAMiLY Leader, an organization dedicated to advancing the role of religious values in government, at the Marriott hotel in downtown Des Moines on Friday, Nov. 17, 2023. Ramaswamy sat with his son, who ran onto the stage earlier in the event. The event began at 3:30 p.m. with a round table discussion, and was followed by meet-and-greet events with each of the candidates, which included Vivek Ramaswamy, Ron DeSantis, and Nikki Haley.

Reynolds announces grants for summer meal programs

Roxy Ekberg, Politics Reporter
April 10, 2024
U.S. Rep. Mariannette Miller-Meeks answers questions during an interview at the Longworth House Office Building in Washington D.C. on Tuesday, April 9, 2024.

Miller-Meeks now heads caucus of climate-minded conservatives, the second-ever to lead the caucus

Roxy Ekberg, Politics Reporter
April 9, 2024
U.S. Rep. Mariannette Miller-Meeks answers questions during an interview at the Longworth House Office Building in Washington D.C. on Tuesday, April 9, 2024.

Q&A | U.S. Rep. Mariannette Miller-Meeks speaks on new position, reforms to legal immigration

Roxy Ekberg, Politics Reporter
April 9, 2024
U.S. Rep. Ashley Hinson answers questions during an interview in front of the U.S. Capitol in Washington D.C. on Tuesday, April 9, 2024.

Q&A | U.S. Rep. Ashley Hinson speaks on southern border

Roxy Ekberg, Politics Reporter
April 9, 2024
U.S. Sen. Chuck Grassley answers questions during an interview at the Hart Senate Office Building in Washington D.C. on Monday, April 8, 2024. (Cody Blissett/The Daily Iowan)

Q&A | U.S. Sen. Chuck Grassley talks potential TikTok ban, FAFSA

Roxy Ekberg, Politics Reporter
April 8, 2024
State representatives stand for a moment of silence for the school shooting that happened in Perry, Iowa, during the first day of the 2024 Iowa legislative session at the Iowa State Capitol in Des Moines on Monday, Jan. 8, 2024. The shooting took place on Jan. 4.

Reynolds signs bill waiving graduation, state testing requirements for Perry following shooting

Roxy Ekberg, Politics Reporter
April 5, 2024
An organizer speaks during South East Iowa’s Transgender Day of Visibility at College Green Park in Iowa City on Sunday, March 31, 2024. An event at the James Theatre raised around 2,000 dollars for the Iowa Trans Mutual Aid Fund, which goes toward gender-affirming care for Iowans on Friday night.

Iowa City activists, residents rally for Transgender Day of Visibility

Roxy Ekberg, Politics Reporter
March 31, 2024
Paula Scanlan, former teammate of transgender athlete Lia Thomas, speaks during a Young American’s for Freedom sponsored event at Iowa Memorial Union’s Black Box theatre on Monday, March 25, 2024.

Former UPenn swimmer Paula Scanlan lectures at UI

Liam Halawith and Roxy Ekberg
March 25, 2024
U.S. Sen. Chuck Grassley R-Iowa speaks with community members about local issues at Merge Iowa City on Monday, March 25, 2024.

Grassley discusses his bipartisan bill that would up the number of legal immigrants at IC townhall

Roxy Ekberg, Politics Reporter
March 25, 2024
Demonstrators gather on the steps of the Old Capitol in Iowa City to raise awareness on transgender discrimination on International Transgender Day of Visibility on March 31, 2023. This Trans Day of Visibility is sponsored by the Today You, Tomorrow Me mutual aid group.

Johnson County activists to hold events leading up to Transgender Day of Visibility

Roxy Ekberg, Politics Reporter
March 24, 2024
Grow Johnson County Farm Manager Dusty Sanor stands next to her crops before an interview on Wednesday, March 20, 2024.

Sen. Joni Ernst led Senate effort to name March 21 “National Women in Ag Day”

Roxy Ekberg, Politics Reporter
March 20, 2024
Polling booths at the Robert A. Lee Community Recreation Center in Iowa City on Tuesday, Nov. 03, 2020. Few voters came as the evening approached 7:00 PM.

Round Two: Student voters disappointed in 2024 election candidates

Liam Halawith and Roxy Ekberg
March 19, 2024
Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds responds to a question asked by a reporter at a press conference at the Iowa State Capitol in Des Moines, Iowa on Tuesday, Jan. 4, 2022.

Iowa Senate passes Area Education Agency overhaul

Roxy Ekberg and Liam Halawith
March 18, 2024
A church leader speaks during a service at Sanctuary Community Center, a church in Coralville, on Sunday, March 3, 2024. Adey and Tom Wassink are pastors who advocate for women’s rights and LGBTQ+ rights within their organization.

Local churches provide safe space for LGBTQ+ community

Roxy Ekberg, Politics Reporter
March 5, 2024
Karry Putzy works at her computer at Solon High School, In Solon, Iowa on Monday Feb. 26. (Emma Gutzman/The Daily Iowan)

Lawmakers eye teacher wage bump as way to combat growing teacher shortage

Roxy Ekberg, Politics Reporter
February 27, 2024
Vince Everett Ellison holds up a photo of Iowa City activist graffiti during a guest lecture at the IMU on Monday, Feb. 26, 2024. Ellison is a conservative speaker invited by YAF who opposes DEI and abortion. Two dozen protesters played a “bingo board” made out of Ellison’s talking points.

Iowa YAF brings Vince Everett Ellison to IMU, protesters raise money for reproductive health care

Liam Halawith and Roxy Ekberg
February 26, 2024
State representatives stand for a moment of silence for the school shooting that happened in Perry, Iowa, during the first day of the 2024 Iowa legislative session at the Iowa State Capitol in Des Moines on Monday, Jan. 8, 2024. The shooting took place on Jan. 4.

Politics Notebook | Iowa House lawmakers advance amended teacher pay proposal

Liam Halawith and Roxy Ekberg
February 26, 2024
Iowa City community members hold a vigil for Nex Benedict on the Pentacrest in Iowa City on Friday, Feb. 23, 2024. Benedict, a 16-year-old nonbinary teen from Owasso, Oklahoma, died after an altercation with other students at school. The official cause of their death has not yet been determined.

Over 100 IC residents hold vigil for death of nonbinary teen Nex Benedict Friday night

Roxy Ekberg, Politics Reporter
February 23, 2024
The Iowa State Capitol is seen during the first day of the 2024 Iowa legislative session at the Iowa State Capitol in Des Moines on Monday, Jan. 8, 2024.

Politics Notebook | Iowa House Republicans approved 3 percent increase in school funding

Liam Halawith and Roxy Ekberg
February 22, 2024
Staffers listen to a representative during the first day of the 2024 Iowa legislative session at the Iowa State Capitol in Des Moines on Monday, Jan. 8, 2024.

Iowa legislators advance a bill to increase teacher pay

Roxy Ekberg, Politics Reporter
February 15, 2024
Lawmakers sit in the house chamber during the first day of the 2024 Iowa legislative session at the Iowa State Capitol in Des Moines on Monday, Jan. 8, 2024.

Politics Notebook | Iowa House Lawmakers advance bill to allow felons to run for president

Liam Halawith, Alejandro Rojas, and Roxy Ekberg
February 13, 2024
Mandi Remington prepares breakfast with her daughter Arya Nichols on Tuesday, Feb. 13, 2024.

Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds rejects summer food program as local resources strain

Liam Halawith and Roxy Ekberg
February 13, 2024
The Iowa State Capitol is seen during the first day of the 2024 Iowa legislative session at the Iowa State Capitol in Des Moines on Monday, Jan. 8, 2024.

Iowa lawmakers advance bill to arm teachers, require police officers in schools

Roxy Ekberg, Politics Reporter
February 12, 2024
The inside of the gold dome is seen during the first day of the 2024 Iowa legislative session at the Iowa State Capitol in Des Moines on Monday, Jan. 8, 2024. The Republicans have 34 seats in the senate and the Democrats have 16 seats.

Iowa lawmakers advance bill to codify Iowa Board of Regents changes to DEI

Roxy Ekberg, Politics Reporter
February 12, 2024
Iowa Board of Regents president Michael Richards prepares for lunch break during a board meeting in Cedar Falls, Iowa, on Wednesday, Nov. 15, 2023.

Proposed legislation would cap tuition increases at 3 percent at Iowa’s public universities

Roxy Ekberg, Politics Reporter
February 6, 2024
Christina Bohannan speaks at a roundtable event at the Medical Education Building in Iowa City on Monday Feb. 5, 2024.

Bohannan angles campaign toward young Iowa voters

Roxy Ekberg, Politics Editor
February 5, 2024
Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds speaks during Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis' Caucus Night Watch Party at the Sheraton in West Des Moines on Monday, Jan. 15, 2024. Republican voters assembled statewide to participate in the caucuses despite the cold and extreme winter weather across the state. Former President Donald Trump won the caucuses in a dominant and early fashion with 51 percent support from Republicans while DeSantis trailed in second with 21 percent as of 11:15 p.m. Around 250 people showed up to listen to DeSantis. (Ayrton Breckenridge/The Daily Iowan)

Reynolds announces plan to send more Iowa National Guardsmen to U.S.-Mexico border

Roxy Ekberg, Politics Reporter
February 5, 2024
The Iowa State Capitol is seen in Des Moines on Wednesday, Jan. 10, 2024.

Politics Notebook | Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds introduces bill to legally define men, women

Liam Halawith and Roxy Ekberg
February 1, 2024
Jessie looks back toward her camp in the early evening on Friday, Sept. 22, 2023. Jessie hails from Georgia and said she faced trauma in her upbringing there. As fall and winter weather brings colder days to Iowa City, individuals living outside can be put at risk. Iowa City’s homeless population must navigate a set of difficulties which includes food insecurity, exposure to the elements and often personal traumas and or addiction. Despite the hardship, individuals have become increasingly resourceful and have built community-like networks as well as intricate encampments.

Proposed Iowa bills could reduce advocacy for people experiencing homelessness

Roxy Ekberg, Politics Reporter
January 30, 2024
Iowa Sen. Pam Jochum, D-Dubuque, speaks at the March for Our Lives Demonstration during the first day of the 2024 Iowa legislative session at the Iowa State Capitol in Des Moines on Monday, Jan. 8, 2024. The demonstration was held to callout lawmakers on the topic of gun violence following the school shooting in Perry, Iowa on Jan. 4. Jochum has served in the senate since 2009 and prior to that was in the house from 1993-2007.

Iowa Senate Democrats propose reproductive rights amendment

Roxy Ekberg, Politics Reporter
January 30, 2024
The Iowa State Capitol is seen in Des Moines on Wednesday, Jan. 10, 2024.

Iowa lawmakers advance bill requiring proof of U.S. citizenship to receive in-state tuition

Roxy Ekberg, Politics Reporter
January 29, 2024
Iowa Sen. Janice Weiner, D-Iowa City, speaks at a public forum hosted by the League of Women’s Voters of Johnson County in the Iowa City Senior Center on Saturday, Jan. 27, 2024. The forum is the first of three scheduled during the 2024 Legislative session and the topic of discussion is education.

JoCo legislators discuss gun reform at public forum

Roxy Ekberg, Politics Reporter
January 27, 2024
State Auditor Rob Sand speaks to the Iowa City community at Iowa City Hall on Thursday, Sept. 7, 2023.

Lower-income Iowans paying higher property taxes, report finds

Roxy Ekberg, Politics Reporter
January 23, 2024
Attendees wait for Iowa caucuses to begin at Clear Creek Elementary School in Oxford, Iowa, on Monday, Jan. 15, 2024. Trump led the precinct with 32 votes.

Iowa experts speculate future of the first-in-the-nation caucuses

Roxy Ekberg, Politics Reporter
January 22, 2024
Speaker of the House, Pat Grassley, R-New Hartford, looks over documents during the first day of the 2024 Iowa legislative session at the Iowa State Capitol in Des Moines on Monday, Jan. 8, 2024. Grassley has been in the house since 2007.

Iowa lawmakers affirm support for Israel, pro-Palestine protesters call for ceasefire

Roxy Ekberg, Politics Reporter
January 18, 2024
The Iowa State Capitol is seen during the first day of the 2024 Iowa legislative session at the Iowa State Capitol in Des Moines on Monday, Jan. 8, 2024.

Iowa lawmakers introduce bill to revoke financial aid from students who support ‘terrorism’

Roxy Ekberg, Politics Reporter
January 18, 2024
Iowa Attorney General Brenna Bird speaks during a Moms for Liberty Rally at the Iowa State Capitol in Des Moines on Wednesday, Jan. 10, 2024.

Iowa Attorney General Brenna Bird sues TikTok

Roxy Ekberg, Politics Reporter
January 17, 2024
Caucusgoers Rosalina and Dave Legg volunteer before the caucus begins at East High School in Des Moines on Monday, Jan. 15, 2024. Precinct Officials and volunteers set up as early caucus-goers entered the cafeteria.

Iowa caucuses see record-low voter turnout

Roxy Ekberg, Politics Reporter
January 16, 2024
Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis waves during DeSantis' Caucus Night Watch Party at the Sheraton in West Des Moines on Monday, Jan. 15, 2024.

DeSantis follows far behind Trump with second place in caucuses

Alejandro Rojas, Natalie Miller, and Roxy Ekberg
January 16, 2024
Liliana Corbett adjusts merchandise during a campaign event for Republican Presidential hopeful Vivek Ramaswamy at the Hilton Garden Inn in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, on Saturday, Jan. 6, 2024. Ramaswamy spoke to over a hundred supporters about his values and ideas on topics involving veteran care, climate change, and the First Amendment.

Ramaswamy suspends campaign after dismal Iowa Republican caucuses results

Roxy Ekberg, Politics Reporter
January 16, 2024
Former President Donald Trump speaks during Trump’s Commit to Caucus Rally at Des Moines Area Community College in Newton, Iowa on Saturday, Jan. 6, 2024. The Iowa caucuses take place on Jan. 15. Trump brought up Jan. 6, 2021, but said the real threat to democracy was President Joe Biden. 

Trump hints at vice president choice at Des Moines Fox News town hall

Roxy Ekberg, News Reporter
January 11, 2024
Republican presidential candidate Vivek Ramaswamy speaks during the “No Eminent Domain! No Carbon Pipelines!” Rally at the Iowa State Capitol in Des Moines on Wednesday, Jan. 10, 2024. Ramaswamy did not qualify for the Republican presidential debate in Iowa later that night.

Iowa Rep. Steven Holt switches his presidential endorsement to Ramaswamy

Roxy Ekberg, News Reporter
January 10, 2024
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