On this episode of ITR Live, we welcome Representative Dan Gehlbach (R-Urbandale), who shares his experiences following his first term in the Iowa House. With three years on the Waukee School Board, Rep. Gehlbach brings a valuable perspective on the state's educational system. In the latter part of the episode, we gain insights into the crucial role of legislative leadership in driving these education reforms. The conversation highlights the growing movement to bolster support systems for educat...
May 22, 2024•41 min
In this episode of ITR Live, we dive into the recent New York Times/Siena poll that has sent shockwaves through the national political landscape. The discussion delves into the eye-opening numbers of the poll, which should have the Biden campaign and downballot Democrats worried. Chris and John also touch upon the challenges of property tax relief measures and the need for legislative action to continue providing real relief for taxpayers. We look at what is driving the conversation in Nebraska,...
May 14, 2024•29 min
In this episode of ITR Live, Chris and John take a look at ITR's recent work to spread the good news of Iowa's success on tax policy in the state of Iowa. John has had multiple articles picked up in both Iowa and national media: Iowa Accelerates Transition to a Low Flat Tax - National Review Kim Reynolds Keeps Iowa 'Safe-Sane-Steady.' That's Why She Keeps Winning. - Des Moines Register We also take a look at recent news articles lamenting the increased dis-enrollments numbers in Iowa's medicaid ...
May 09, 2024•29 min
On this episode of ITR Live, Chris Hagenow is joined by ITR Foundation Research Director Sarah Curry to get an update on her work into local government issues surrounding property taxes and budgets. Chris and Sarah discuss concerns about the performance of county supervisors and the way government should be run. Sarah emphasizes the importance of government listening to its people and reflecting their desires rather than acting as a higher power with its own agenda. Both Sarah and Chris stress t...
May 03, 2024•32 min
Senator Scott Webster (R-Scott) is our guest on this episode of ITR Live. Senator Webster outlines his successful leadership in blocking local UBI initiatives, framing such programs as a misguided approach to welfare that risks entrenching a dependency culture and escalating local taxes. He details the legislative journey and the ideological battles over UBI, emphasizing the potential financial pitfalls for communities tempted by this "latest and greatest way to engineer wealth re-distribution"....
Apr 30, 2024•39 min
A recent Des Moines Register Editorial blasted government Kim Reynolds and the legislature for taking an "extreme path" and that Iowans should worry what might come next. ITR Live takes a look at the absurdity of this piece, highlighting that Iowa voters elected Governor Reynolds by a substantial margin, and also elected wide conservative majorities in the House and Senate. Further, many of the policies criticized by the Register are favored by a clear majority of Iowans. Central to the defense ...
Apr 26, 2024•28 min
This episode of ITR Live takes a look at some of the high points for Iowa taxpayers out of the 2024 Iowa legislative session. The conclusion of this year’s session has brought with it several key outcomes that signal a brighter future for Iowa taxpayers. The acceleration toward a flat income tax structure is expected to make Iowa one of the states with the lowest income tax rates, a notable departure from its previous high-tax regime. The reduction to a 3.8% flat tax rate from the progressive sy...
Apr 23, 2024•34 min
As the 2024 Iowa legislative session nears adjournment for the year, progress has been made on several high-profile, pro-taxpayer bills. ITR Live is here with an update on several pieces of legislation that are on track to be enacted in the legislature’s closing days. Income Tax Changes The recent discussions on income tax changes have outlined significant adjustments towards a simpler and fairer tax system. The proposal includes an acceleration of the flat tax rate to a lower 3.8% flat tax by 2...
Apr 18, 2024•24 min
In today's episode of ITR Live, we delve into the challenges third-party candidates face on the political landscape. We discuss the hurdles these candidates encounter to gain ballot access, with a keen focus on signature collection and the grassroots support it implies. Beyond ensuring candidacy, it is a litmus test for a campaign’s viability. Our discussion also highlights the role of notable figures like RFK Jr., who bring attention to third-party influence, despite skepticism regarding their ...
Apr 15, 2024•21 min
As the legislative session approaches its concluding weeks, there are several important topics and legislative actions that have surfaced, garnering both public attention and lawmaker debate. This flurry of activities includes the reassessment of education spending, the passionate discussion on traffic surveillance, and the robust considerations on land ownership. A significant bill that has seen advancement is one addressing foreign ownership of Iowa land. The bill, now signed into law, aims to...
Apr 10, 2024•32 min
Welcome to this episode of the ITR Live Podcast, where we delve into the dynamic and strategically complex world of Iowa politics. Today, we're focusing on the intertwined themes of taxation, governance, and the cultural fabric that enriches the lives of Iowans. This legislative session, the spotlight is on Iowa's fiscal health and taxation policies. Iowa boasts a financial surplus of over a billion dollars and a taxpayer relief fund nearing $4 billion, underscoring its robust economic condition...
Apr 05, 2024•31 min
In this episode of ITR Live, Chris Hagenow, Chris Ingstad, and John Hendrickson engage in a comprehensive discussion on local government budgeting and its current implications to taxpayers. They probe into the challenges faced by citizens due to expansive budget growth, noting Dallas County's proposed 25% hike in property tax revenue as a compelling example. As household expenditures are rising with no corresponding rise in income, the discussion centers on how the justifications for such tax in...
Apr 02, 2024•28 min
On this episode of the gold standard in Iowa conservative podcasts, Chris Hagenow and John Hendrickson review the recent ITR/NFIB Tax Day Luncheon held in Des Moines. The keynote speaker was Grover Norquist of Americans for Tax Reform followed by a panel conversation with the House and Senate Ways and Means committee chairmen, Representative Bobby Kaufmann and Senator Dan Dawson. The state of Iowa has been making notable strides in implementing strategic tax policies that have not only benefited...
Mar 27, 2024•38 min
Alan Ostergren of the Kirkwood Institute joins ITR Live for a turn in John Hendrickson’s spot. Alan and Chris talk about the political climate in Iowa and what we might be able to expect in the 2024 elections. Iowa's political environment is increasingly becoming more favorable for Republicans, largely thanks to a cohesive strategy and rising voter alignment with conservative values. Polling data suggests a significant lead for the Republican party, pointing toward a dominating performance in up...
Mar 22, 2024•52 min
On this episode of ITR Live, we are joined by Jonathan Williams, ALEC’s Chief Economist and SVP of Policy. Jonathan is involved in educating state legislators on the principles of limited government, free markets, and federalism, and works with them to highlight conservative priorities that resonate with the public. Jonathan has been a key figure in promoting ideas for states to become more economically competitive. Jonathan understands very well why Iowa's approach to tax policy has been touted...
Mar 19, 2024•43 min
In this episode of ITR Live, we emphasize the role of civic engagement in holding elected officials accountable for their tax-related decisions. An informed electorate is essential; one that demands clarity and justifies their tax obligations from their local supervisors. The concept of a well-informed citizenry participating in budgetary and tax discussions is not just a right but a mechanism to ensure fair taxation. By scrutinizing the reluctance of some local officials who view increased taxp...
Mar 15, 2024•26 min
In the episode of ITR Live, we provide a wide-ranging update on what’s happening in in the Capitol. More specifically we dive into the complex yet vital world of state regulation and the legislature's role in its making, monitoring, and implementation in Iowa. The function of legislative oversight is a cornerstone of democratic governance. It ensures that rules and regulations, which have a substantial impact on the lives of Iowans, are thoroughly scrutinized and re-evaluated when necessary. The...
Mar 12, 2024•28 min
On the episode of ITR Live, we delve deep into the evolution of Iowa's conservative agenda. We'll review the latest happenings in public policy, particularly two proposed constitutional amendments stirring the political circles of the state. We listen to the voices from both sides of the aisle as they debate on the merits of a supermajority requirement for raising income taxes and the establishment of a flat income rate. Moreover, we explore the implications of these proposals on democratic dyna...
Mar 08, 2024•29 min
Spotlight on Iowa's Property Tax Notifications Property tax transparency in Iowa has sparked considerable debate, drawing attention to the newly instituted direct notification laws. The state's initiative to mail out property tax notifications comes with a budgeted cost of $1.9 million, viewed as a necessary expense given the over $5 billion property taxes paid statewide. The direct notification provision requires local governments to inform taxpayers about potential budgetary and spending chang...
Mar 05, 2024•29 min
Mitch McConnell's Tenure Undoubtedly, a lasting highlight of McConnell’s time as a leading Republican is his influence on the federal judiciary. McConnell’s strategic decision not to fill the Merrick Garland Supreme Court vacancy until after the 2016 election is seen as a pivotal move that profoundly altered the course of the American judiciary. The appointment of three Supreme Court justices and numerous conservative federal judges throughout the court system stands as a testament to his steadf...
Mar 01, 2024•35 min
The United States’ Responsibility to Ukraine As Pat Buchanan once eloquently pointed out, history has a tendency to repeat itself, especially when it comes to foreign policy blunders. The recent discussions surrounding NATO expansion, particularly the potential inclusion of Ukraine, raise red flags The bipartisan push to expand NATO, taking it right up to Russia's doorstep, is a dangerous game that risks igniting World War III. As John Hendrickson rightly points out, the desire to involve Americ...
Feb 27, 2024•34 min
Understanding Property Taxes in Iowa For many Iowans, the level of property taxes is a concern that hits close to home. However, it's the lack of understanding about property tax administration that fuels much of the public's unease. It's vital to comprehend how these taxes are calculated, what they fund, and the ways in which local government budget hearings influence municipal spending. The absence of clarity often leads to the sentiment that something is amiss without the knowledge needed to ...
Feb 23, 2024•29 min
In the latest episode of the ITR podcast, Chris and John delve into a comprehensive update on the legislative landscape following the initial legislative funnel. Their discussion covers the trajectory of several pivotal bills, including the governor's tax initiative which has successfully advanced through a subcommittee. They also explore the vibrant debates and developments surrounding various legislative matters such as the farmland legislation, proposals for a guaranteed income, and the conso...
Feb 20, 2024•32 min
Political Stability: Iowa Remains Solidly Republican The most recent Iowans for Tax Relief Foundation Poll, conducted by Cygnal, shows a majority of Iowans believe our country is headed in the wrong direction. More than two-thirds (68.2%) of those surveyed believe the United States is off on the wrong track, including an overwhelming majority of Republicans (92%) and Independents (72%). President Joe Biden was similarly unpopular, with a substantial majority of Iowans (64.7%) holding an unfavora...
Feb 16, 2024•33 min
Trade Policy Expressed in Music: The Legacy of the Protective Tariff Grand March In the late 19th century, political debates were not confined to the floors of legislative buildings or printed pamphlets alone. The trade issue—a hot topic during the period—inspired not only heated discussions but also artistic expressions. William L. Thompson, a notable composer of that time, encapsulated the era's contentious economic debate in his musical compositions, including the "Protective Tariff Grand Mar...
Feb 13, 2024•23 min
The landscape of conservative political discourse is continuously shaped and reshaped by pivotal events and figures, both past and current. In the following article, we delve into several key conversations that frequently animate conservative circles, including Russia's historical narrative, reflections on the COVID-19 response, and the ongoing debate surrounding the binary nature of gender. Recent high-profile interviews like Tucker Carlson's with Vladimir Putin have brought the Russian perspec...
Feb 09, 2024•22 min
The Des Moines Register recently published an objective piece, which brought to light the outcomes of recent educational reforms, such as Education Savings Accounts (ESAs). Contrary to fearful forecasts of doom for public schools – particularly in rural areas – the actual movement of students to private schools has occurred predominantly in more populated areas where private schools are already established. In the legislature this year is the progression of a bill that would allow local governme...
Feb 06, 2024•31 min
## The Emergence of a Tax Reform Agreement Iowa's leadership on tax policy has set the stage for an extraordinary era in the state's fiscal management and potential economic growth. After a series of surpluses and the amassing of a substantial balance in the taxpayer relief fund, Iowa is poised to solidify its reputation as a leader in conservative budgeting and tax relief. The recent alignment between the state's House and Senate on a forthcoming tax policy not only underscores their commitment...
Feb 01, 2024•32 min
# # Freedom and Liberty in Western Thought Freedom and liberty are terms often used synonymously in political dialogue, especially within conservative circles. However, these terms carry distinct meanings and have been subjects of philosophical debates throughout the history of Western civilization. The idea of freedom often relates to the power or right to act, speak, or think as one wants without hindrance or restraint. Liberty, on the other hand, is commonly associated with the state of being...
Jan 31, 2024•29 min
Local government finance can be complex and often overwhelming for those who do not specialize in the field. However, it profoundly impacts homeowners and taxpayers. When it comes to property taxes, many people get alarmed by escalating assessments and dread the subsequent tax bills. It's important to recognize that the true opportunity for taxpayers to influence their property tax bills is not during the assessment notices period, but around budgeting time for local governments. Local governmen...
Jan 26, 2024•32 min
