DES MOINES – The U.S. Department of Agriculture approved a request by Governor Kim Reynolds to approve a state project for hunger as the state opted out of federal assistance. Iowa Capital Dispatch reports Healthy Kids Iowa aims to work with existing summer food programs. Iowa is one of 11 states not participating in a federal program that provides $40 a month. Families with children ages four to 18 in households at or below 185% poverty are eligible for Reynolds plan.

WEST DES MOINES – A second Democrat has announced intentions to run against Representative Zach Nunn in what is expected to be a competitive U.S. House race in 2026. The Des Moines Register reports Iowa House Minority Leader Jennifer Konfrst has announced plans to challenge for the seat. She’s the second Democrat to do so, as State Senator Sarah Trone Garriott also announced her campaign earlier this week.

ELKADER – The Central Community School District has held off on letting go of its superintendent for now. KCRG-TV reports the school board claims an agenda item caused too much confusion as it replated to a contract extension for Nick Trenkamp. He’s accused of making homophobic comments on social media and has been on administrative leave since. The district’s board president did not clarify what action could be taken in the near future related to the contract.