Here’s the Scoop, Election Edition: How Iowa Became a Battleground Again
Summary
NBC News Chief White House Correspondent Garrett Hake explores the shifting political landscape in Iowa ahead of the midterms. He interviews Democratic Senate nominee Josh Turek, a Paralympian and former Republican, who discusses his "prairie populist" strategy to capitalize on economic frustrations with tariffs and the Iran war. The episode also features Republican strategist David Kochel, who analyzes the challenging environment for GOP candidates and the potential for ticket-splitting in the governor's race.
Topics discussed
Introduction to the Election Edition
Iowa's shift: Why Democrats are back in play
Preview of guest David Kochel
Sponsor: Fanatics Sportsbook
Introduction of Josh Turek, Senate nominee
Turek's background: Disability advocacy and politics
Defining 'Prairie Populist' and cost of living
Impact of tariffs and Iran war on Iowa farmers
Healthcare, insurance, and economic policy
Bipartisan issues: Corruption and dark money
Coordination with Governor candidate Rob Sand
Turek's strategy: Local focus over national party
Obama endorsement and connection to Iowans
Election night strategy and voter turnout
Sponsors: WHOOP and Ozempic
Sponsor: Investigative journalism appeal
Introduction of David Kochel, GOP strategist
Kochel: The tough environment for Republicans
Candidates distancing themselves from Trump
Analysis of Rob Sand's nonpartisan appeal
Assessing the governor's race and coattails
Ticket splitting and ballot order dynamics
Ashley Hinson's strengths and Trump's role
Kochel's view on Josh Turek's campaign
Is Iowa becoming a purple state?
Polling spreads and final predictions
Preview of next week: AI and data centers
Sponsor: AI data center concerns
Sponsor: Zepbound for sleep apnea
Zepbound side effects disclaimer
Listen ad-free on Castria