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Vance takes a step toward 2028 in MAGA power play

The vice president's path to 2028 presidential campaign demands a delicate political calculation.

Politics & Policy

Vice President <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Vance" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/11/04/jd-vance-iran-war-trump-election" data-vars-content-id="73f290c3-5be9-42c9-aa24-f0f2afde057b" data-vars-headline="Vance takes a step toward 2028 in MAGA power play" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/11/04/jd-vance-iran-war-trump-election" target="_self">Vance</a> stepped out of President Trump&#x27;s shadow Wednesday, seizing on the GOP&#x27;s midterm catastrophe to begin the explosive task of claiming MAGA as his own.<ul><li>&quot;The reason we lost is the war,&quot; Vance wrote in an extraordinary 600-word <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="postmortem on X" data-vars-click-url="https://x.com/JDVance/status/2118004988433641835" data-vars-content-id="73f290c3-5be9-42c9-aa24-f0f2afde057b" data-vars-headline="Vance takes a step toward 2028 in MAGA power play" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://x.com/JDVance/status/2118004988433641835" target="_blank">postmortem on X</a>, blaming Trump&#x27;s Iran campaign for Republicans&#x27; historic collapse.</li></ul>Why it matters: Vance&#x27;s presidential ambitions are entangled in the wreckage of a war he privately opposed but publicly defended. His path to 2028 demands a delicate political calculation.

Why Pete Hegseth could fall through "thin ice"

Hegseth is the most vulnerable member of Trump's Cabinet after Tuesday's midterm shellacking.

It&#x27;s a de facto motto in the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Trump" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/politics-policy/donald-trump" data-vars-content-id="f46cd733-69c6-42c1-b4a3-82fd106ddbc0" data-vars-headline="Why Pete Hegseth could fall through &quot;thin ice&quot;" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/politics-policy/donald-trump" target="_self">Trump</a> White House: &quot;Somebody&#x27;s gotta take the fall.&quot; Lately, that person looks like Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth.Why it matters: From the unpopular war in Iran to his bad bipartisan relations with members of Congress, Hegseth&#x27;s record has made him the most vulnerable member of Trump&#x27;s Cabinet after Tuesday night&#x27;s midterm shellacking.

Democrats poised to break GOP's 16-year grip on statehouses

A majority of Americans could live in Democratic trifectas.

<a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Democrats" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/11/04/midterm-takeaways-blue-wave-trump-democrats" data-vars-content-id="f4b1539f-9a87-48a1-acef-d6d3f390351c" data-vars-headline="Democrats poised to break GOP&#x27;s 16-year grip on statehouses" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/11/04/midterm-takeaways-blue-wave-trump-democrats" target="_self">Democrats</a> are on track to take control of a majority of legislative chambers, ending 16 years of Republican dominance over America&#x27;s statehouses.<ul><li>If current leads hold, 75% of Americans will live in a state with a <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Democratic" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/11/04/five-biggest-shocks-democrats-midterm-results" data-vars-content-id="f4b1539f-9a87-48a1-acef-d6d3f390351c" data-vars-headline="Democrats poised to break GOP&#x27;s 16-year grip on statehouses" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/11/04/five-biggest-shocks-democrats-midterm-results" target="_self">Democratic</a> governor, and 53% will live in Democratic trifectas.</li></ul>Why it matters: Statehouses are the front line of American federalism, and Tuesday&#x27;s gains dramatically expand Democrats&#x27; power to increase minimum wages, protect abortion access, and set voting rules ahead of <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="2028" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/signup/axios-2028" data-vars-content-id="f4b1539f-9a87-48a1-acef-d6d3f390351c" data-vars-headline="Democrats poised to break GOP&#x27;s 16-year grip on statehouses" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/signup/axios-2028" target="_self">2028</a> for most Americans.

After midterm defeat, Trump faces mostly bad options in Iran

World

President Trump has conceded that the Iran war cost Republicans dearly in the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="midterms" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/politics-policy/2026-midterm-elections" data-vars-content-id="a339785b-faa5-4b96-afc9-21b4168fbd2d" data-vars-headline="After midterm defeat, Trump faces mostly bad options in Iran" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/politics-policy/2026-midterm-elections" target="_self">midterms</a>. Now he must decide whether to cut his losses and reach a deal — or double down and go back to bombing. Why it matters: All of <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Trump&#x27;s" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/politics-policy/donald-trump" data-vars-content-id="a339785b-faa5-4b96-afc9-21b4168fbd2d" data-vars-headline="After midterm defeat, Trump faces mostly bad options in Iran" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/politics-policy/donald-trump" target="_self">Trump&#x27;s</a> options are problematic:The first is to strike. But going back to war would be highly unpopular — keeping <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="gas" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/energy-climate" data-vars-content-id="a339785b-faa5-4b96-afc9-21b4168fbd2d" data-vars-headline="After midterm defeat, Trump faces mostly bad options in Iran" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/energy-climate" target="_self">gas</a> prices high and probably not yielding a better military result. Another is to negotiate. But if <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Iranian" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/world/iran" data-vars-content-id="a339785b-faa5-4b96-afc9-21b4168fbd2d" data-vars-headline="After midterm defeat, Trump faces mostly bad options in Iran" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/world/iran" target="_self">Iranian</a> officals refuse to make concessions — or, sensing weakness after the president&#x27;s political loss, up their demands — Trump will have a hard time reaching a deal.

Dems' rout opens door to "big test" and a packed 2028 field

The party's victories gave all of its factions reason to claim they can defeat the GOP in two years.

Democrats of all political stripes <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="won so big" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/politics-policy/2026-midterm-elections" data-vars-content-id="94aa7054-b019-44a4-bd58-dd6dc5b80e91" data-vars-headline="Dems&#x27; rout opens door to &quot;big test&quot; and a packed 2028 field" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/politics-policy/2026-midterm-elections" target="_self">won so big</a> on Tuesday that the party didn&#x27;t settle its long-running civil war between moderates and progressives.<ul><li>Instead, the party&#x27;s historic victories gave each faction some reasons to claim that its brand of Democrats can defeat the GOP in 2028.</li></ul>Driving the news: Democratic operatives are sure of one thing, though: Tuesday&#x27;s blowout wins mean that more party leaders will be willing to run for the White House than if the midterms hadn&#x27;t gone so well.

Josh Turek flips control of Senate with Iowa upset

Turek gives Democrats their first Iowa Senate victory since 2008 in a major political breakthrough.

Democratic state Rep. <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Josh Turek" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/des-moines/2026/10/14/iowa-early-voting-elections-2026-midterms?utm_source=chatgpt.com" data-vars-content-id="b1eb6363-e2f5-46b5-b506-056120fa7e24" data-vars-headline="Josh Turek flips control of Senate with Iowa upset" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/des-moines/2026/10/14/iowa-early-voting-elections-2026-midterms?utm_source=chatgpt.com" target="_self">Josh Turek</a> defeated Republican U.S. Rep. Ashley Hinson in a major upset Tuesday, becoming the first Democrat elected to the U.S. Senate from Iowa since 2008, the AP projected. Why it matters: Turek&#x27;s victory delivers Democrats control of the Senate — and signals a political backlash against Republicans in a state Trump won comfortably just two years ago.

These Des Moines sandwiches regularly sell out

The Good Butcher serves a different sandwich every Tuesday.

Food and Drink

From melty cheesesteaks to fat-stacked Reubens, <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="The Good Butcher" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/des-moines/2024/07/30/good-butcher-specialty-shop-desmoines-sherman-hill" data-vars-content-id="32334ca2-26c6-43fe-b67c-bfed56a18f0c" data-vars-headline="These Des Moines sandwiches regularly sell out" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/des-moines/2024/07/30/good-butcher-specialty-shop-desmoines-sherman-hill" target="_self">The Good Butcher</a>, off Ingersoll, is regularly selling out of its weekly Sandwich Tuesday specials.Why it matters: Food is fun, and these creative sandwiches get the shop&#x27;s chefs to think outside of the box while also using locally sourced meats.

Des Moines: Your 1-minute guide to election day

Here's everything you need to know about how to vote and what's at stake.

Politics

Election day is finally upon us. Here&#x27;s a one-minute cheat sheet with what you need to know to vote Tuesday.🗳️ Where to vote: Look up your polling place on the Secretary of State&#x27;s <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="website" data-vars-click-url="https://sos.iowa.gov/elections/voterreg/pollingplace/search.aspx" data-vars-content-id="e9a5459d-8a94-495f-bc21-8f52a9e420f2" data-vars-headline="Des Moines: Your 1-minute guide to election day" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://sos.iowa.gov/elections/voterreg/pollingplace/search.aspx" target="_blank">website</a>.

Why an Iowa woman's final vote won't count

An unexpected death raises questions about a little-known election law.

News

<a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Pauline &quot;Kay&quot; Myers" data-vars-click-url="https://ilesfuneralhomes.com/obituaries/pauline-kay-myers/" data-vars-content-id="120f61d9-b38a-42de-8fad-4ec79f37a014" data-vars-headline="Why an Iowa woman&#x27;s final vote won&#x27;t count" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://ilesfuneralhomes.com/obituaries/pauline-kay-myers/" target="_blank">Pauline &quot;Kay&quot; Myers</a>, 90, proudly cast her ballot alongside her son, Bruce. She died hours later, and now her vote won&#x27;t count under Iowa law.The big picture: Her story highlights a little-known Iowa law that can disqualify ballots legally cast by voters who die before Election Day.

No rules for AI ads in Iowa

Iowa is among the states that don't require AI ad disclosure.

Iowa is among 19 states that don&#x27;t regulate <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="AI-generated political ads" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/10/19/ai-attack-ads-campaigns-elections-deepfakes" data-vars-content-id="16b866c7-9879-4998-92f9-7030f9d81aff" data-vars-headline="No rules for AI ads in Iowa" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/10/19/ai-attack-ads-campaigns-elections-deepfakes" target="_self">AI-generated political ads</a>, which have already appeared in races from the U.S. Senate to the gubernatorial seat.Why it matters: Without restrictions, AI-generated political ads could sway voters to believe a stance that a politician doesn&#x27;t actually hold.

Des Moines to buy first home under new housing strategy

It marks the start of a massive, long-term effort to demolish or improve entire city blocks.

Business

Des Moines City Council unanimously approved the first property acquisition tied to its new citywide housing strategy this week.Why it matters: The home at 1656 Martin Luther King Jr. Parkway marks the start of a massive, long-term effort to demolish or improve entire city blocks, home to thousands of neglected houses that <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="have been called &quot;an albatross.&quot;" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/des-moines/2025/02/13/redeveloping-blocks-house-eminent-domain-czb" data-vars-content-id="0740e30c-f721-4ec7-9d2a-613d791bd07e" data-vars-headline="Des Moines to buy first home under new housing strategy" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/des-moines/2025/02/13/redeveloping-blocks-house-eminent-domain-czb" target="_self">have been called &quot;an albatross.&quot;</a>

Des Moines' historic Butler House is for sale

Much of the furniture is included in the sale.

Real Estate

The Butler House on Grand Avenue went on the market this week.Why it matters: It isn&#x27;t just a stately Tudor; it&#x27;s woven into Des Moines&#x27; architectural legacy — including its connection to the Butler Mansion on Fleur Drive, which recently became home to the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Italian-American Cultural Center of Iowa" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/des-moines/2025/01/16/desmoines-butler-mansion-museum-italian-cultural" data-vars-content-id="9076b9b4-3e0b-41e7-9553-d67bc343aa69" data-vars-headline="Des Moines&#x27; historic Butler House is for sale" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/des-moines/2025/01/16/desmoines-butler-mansion-museum-italian-cultural" target="_self">Italian-American Cultural Center of Iowa</a>.

Lefty's music venue reopens Saturday as Strychnine

A familiar Drake-area stage gets a new name and new life.

<a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Strychnine Live Music and Drinks" data-vars-click-url="https://www.facebook.com/strychninelivemusic" data-vars-content-id="abaf9d2b-6295-43e9-ab6c-aae71970673f" data-vars-headline="Lefty&#x27;s music venue reopens Saturday as Strychnine" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.facebook.com/strychninelivemusic" target="_blank">Strychnine Live Music and Drinks</a> opens Saturday in the former Lefty&#x27;s space near Drake University.Why it matters: Strychnine preserves a small stage for local and emerging acts after Des Moines lost longtime venues including <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Gas Lamp" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/des-moines/2023/07/26/soccer-gas-lamp-building-stadium-krause-desmoines" data-vars-content-id="abaf9d2b-6295-43e9-ab6c-aae71970673f" data-vars-headline="Lefty&#x27;s music venue reopens Saturday as Strychnine" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/des-moines/2023/07/26/soccer-gas-lamp-building-stadium-krause-desmoines" target="_self">Gas Lamp</a> and <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Vaudeville Mews" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/des-moines/2021/11/18/des-moines-4th-street-business-closed-pandemic" data-vars-content-id="abaf9d2b-6295-43e9-ab6c-aae71970673f" data-vars-headline="Lefty&#x27;s music venue reopens Saturday as Strychnine" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/des-moines/2021/11/18/des-moines-4th-street-business-closed-pandemic" target="_self">Vaudeville Mews</a> in recent years.

Valley West Mall is finally sold

A lease with JC Penney is holding up redevelopment plans.

After years of delays, <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Valley West Mall has finally sold" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/des-moines/2023/08/15/valley-west-mall-housing-west-desmoines-redevelopment" data-vars-content-id="9e20b598-e699-42eb-8e15-21cb57b61294" data-vars-headline="Valley West Mall is finally sold" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/des-moines/2023/08/15/valley-west-mall-housing-west-desmoines-redevelopment" target="_self">Valley West Mall has finally sold</a>, though JCPenney&#x27;s longstanding lease could hold up redevelopment.Why it matters: The 58-acre site is in a popular traffic area ripe for commercial and residential development, but the empty, aging mall structure is a major impediment.

Iowa's early voting starts Wednesday

Cancer, the cost of living and tariffs are among the issues on voters' minds.

Iowans can begin voting Wednesday in an election that could reshape state government and help decide which party controls Congress.Why it matters: Iowa is once again a battleground, with competitive races for governor and the U.S. Senate and House — and several issues that could determine how voters break.

The Polk County Election Office may relocate

County officials want to increase the office's functionality and security.

The Polk County Election Office might relocate, county administrator John Norris tells Axios.Why it matters: The office has become busier in recent election cycles due to <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="state laws" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/des-moines/2021/03/22/iowas-urban-areas-are-increasingly-democratic-driving-efforts-to-limit-early-voting" data-vars-content-id="0f109df2-79f4-4d4d-a05b-0166ff8ba329" data-vars-headline="The Polk County Election Office may relocate" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/des-moines/2021/03/22/iowas-urban-areas-are-increasingly-democratic-driving-efforts-to-limit-early-voting" target="_self">state laws</a> that limit absentee dropbox locations to one per county.

4 takeaways from Iowa's election results

From Rob Sand's big win to the Iowa caucuses, we have Republicans and Democrats giving their insights.

Iowa voters handed Democrats their <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="biggest" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/des-moines/2026/11/04/iowa-senate-election-win-hinson-turek" data-vars-content-id="d0ee8c0a-5a29-422d-a3f2-6d1a16ef9790" data-vars-headline="4 takeaways from Iowa&#x27;s election results" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/des-moines/2026/11/04/iowa-senate-election-win-hinson-turek" target="_self">biggest</a> <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="election" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/11/04/iowa-governor-results-rob-sand-zach-lahn" data-vars-content-id="d0ee8c0a-5a29-422d-a3f2-6d1a16ef9790" data-vars-headline="4 takeaways from Iowa&#x27;s election results" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/11/04/iowa-governor-results-rob-sand-zach-lahn" target="_self">election</a> <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="victories" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/des-moines/2026/11/04/democrat-sarah-trone-garriott-flips-iowa-house" data-vars-content-id="d0ee8c0a-5a29-422d-a3f2-6d1a16ef9790" data-vars-headline="4 takeaways from Iowa&#x27;s election results" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/des-moines/2026/11/04/democrat-sarah-trone-garriott-flips-iowa-house" target="_self">victories</a> in years Tuesday, but the results suggest their decisions were about more than political parties.Driving the news: We chatted with two longtime politicos, Republican evangelical leader Bob Vander Plaats and Democratic strategist Matt Paul, to get their takes.

Democrat Sarah Trone Garriott flips Iowa's 3rd District

Sarah Trone Garriott, a Lutheran minister and state senator from West Des Moines, won Tuesday night.

Democratic nominee Sarah Trone Garriott defeated Republican U.S. Rep. Zach Nunn <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="in Iowa&#x27;s competitive 3rd Congressional District" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2025/11/09/christian-pastors-democrats-elections" data-vars-content-id="a41d27f4-2561-4613-9d25-d864617a7b9b" data-vars-headline="Democrat Sarah Trone Garriott flips Iowa&#x27;s 3rd District" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2025/11/09/christian-pastors-democrats-elections" target="_self">in Iowa&#x27;s competitive 3rd Congressional District</a>, flipping a key seat in the battle for Congress, according to the Associated Press.Why it matters: Her victory marks a major win for both national and local Democrats, who are trying to break through Republicans&#x27; dominance in the state.

Democrat Rob Sand flips Iowa's governor seat

The Democrat who touts himself as a watchdog flipped the state's top seat.

Rob Sand has won Iowa&#x27;s governor&#x27;s race, becoming the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="first Democrat to lead" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/des-moines/2026/10/14/rob-sand-zach-lahn-different-priorities-water-cancer" data-vars-content-id="32c8278f-c362-4a51-b974-cc5d8be876bf" data-vars-headline="Democrat Rob Sand flips Iowa&#x27;s governor seat" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/des-moines/2026/10/14/rob-sand-zach-lahn-different-priorities-water-cancer" target="_self">first Democrat to lead</a> the state in 20 years by defeating Republican Zach Lahn, AP projects.Why it matters: Sand&#x27;s victory marks a major breakthrough for Iowa Democrats, who have struggled to win statewide elections during Iowa&#x27;s red shift over the past decade.

Democrats retain control of Polk County Board of Supervisors

Democrat Heather Jones-Brown defeated Republican Alyson DeMoss.

Election

Democrats retained control of the Polk County Board of Supervisors on Tuesday, holding off a Republican bid to flip the longtime Democratic stronghold.Why it matters: <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Democrats" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/des-moines/2026/06/03/matt-mccoy-supervisors-primary-john-forbes" data-vars-content-id="2c735fb9-bb5f-466f-a586-f30cb3c01509" data-vars-headline="Democrats retain control of Polk County Board of Supervisors" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/des-moines/2026/06/03/matt-mccoy-supervisors-primary-john-forbes" target="_self">Democrats</a> will continue to control county budget priorities, property taxes and policies affecting public health, roads and other services.

New film celebrates Iowa legend Jay N. Darling

Free screenings Wednesday spotlight the Pulitzer-winning Iowan.

A new documentary celebrating the 150th birthday of legendary Des Moines cartoonist and conservationist Jay N. &quot;Ding&quot; Darling premieres Wednesday.Why it matters: The film introduces a new generation to an Iowa icon who helped transform wildlife conservation in America.

Two worthy Halloween stops: Sherman Hill and Park Avenue

Both events welcome donations to charities.

A spectacular Halloween display spanning multiple homes is free to visit in the 100 block of East Park Avenue in Des Moines.Zoom in: Organizers encourage visitors and welcome donations for <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Skeletons for St. Jude" data-vars-click-url="https://skeletonsforhope.org/" data-vars-content-id="5fa21c74-eff3-46f1-86cb-82655a2d5cdf" data-vars-headline="Two worthy Halloween stops: Sherman Hill and Park Avenue" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://skeletonsforhope.org/" target="_blank">Skeletons for St. Jude</a> and the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="National Brain Tumor Society" data-vars-click-url="https://braintumor.org/" data-vars-content-id="5fa21c74-eff3-46f1-86cb-82655a2d5cdf" data-vars-headline="Two worthy Halloween stops: Sherman Hill and Park Avenue" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://braintumor.org/" target="_blank">National Brain Tumor Society</a>.

The Iowa Clinic threatens to end UnityPoint partnership

Unresolved disputes could reshape where Central Iowa patients receive care.

The Iowa Clinic has <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="notified UnityPoint" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/des-moines/2025/09/12/union-unitypoint-nurses-vote-methodist-blank" data-vars-content-id="cf903c7d-4713-4971-b5f6-829615ed3db1" data-vars-headline="The Iowa Clinic threatens to end UnityPoint partnership" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/des-moines/2025/09/12/union-unitypoint-nurses-vote-methodist-blank" target="_self">notified UnityPoint</a> of plans to terminate its 30-year partnership, citing concerns about hospital operations.Why it matters: The dispute could upend a partnership that helps determine where Central Iowa patients receive care and which doctors treat them.

Iowa early voting surges

Democrats lead the early vote, but their share is down from 2022.

Iowans are casting early ballots at a considerably faster rate than in the 2022 midterms, with more than 307,000 ballots received as of Tuesday morning.Why it matters: The surge — nearly 30% higher than four years ago — signals heightened interest in Iowa&#x27;s <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="closely watched midterms" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/des-moines/2026/10/14/iowa-early-voting-elections-2026-midterms" data-vars-content-id="e5bc4425-4dd2-4531-bddd-bb86d3779158" data-vars-headline="Iowa early voting surges" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/des-moines/2026/10/14/iowa-early-voting-elections-2026-midterms" target="_self">closely watched midterms</a>, but doesn&#x27;t necessarily mean overall turnout will increase.

Des Moines weekend plans from Oct. 30-Nov. 1

From a spooky concert to a beggars' night tradition, there's plenty to do this weekend.

Things to Do

<h2 class="text-h6 !font-sans !font-normal !leading-[1.2em]">Friday</h2>🎃 Beggars&#x27; Night | Dress up the kids and trick-or-treat along Ingersoll Avenue, where more than 40 local restaurants and businesses will hand out candy and treats. | 4:30–6:30pm | Ingersoll Avenue | <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Free!" data-vars-click-url="https://www.theavenuesdsm.com/beggars-night-on-ingersoll-avenue-halloween-trick-or-treat/?utm_source=chatgpt.com" data-vars-content-id="c397814e-aefc-4f59-b098-fb7fe610ef61" data-vars-headline="Des Moines weekend plans from Oct. 30-Nov. 1" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.theavenuesdsm.com/beggars-night-on-ingersoll-avenue-halloween-trick-or-treat/?utm_source=chatgpt.com" target="_blank">Free!</a>

Try these Des Moines-specific Halloween costumes this year

From a kid on an e-moto to the AE Dairy cows, there's plenty of choices.

If you haven&#x27;t planned your Halloween costume yet, maybe these hyper-local options will give you some inspiration.<ul><li>From kids on e-motos to the most in-demand person this year (the Culligan man), there&#x27;s plenty to poke fun at this year.</li></ul>

Go thrifting, dress up for an ACOTAR party this weekend

There's plenty of spooky Halloween events to do this weekend in Des Moines.

<h2 class="text-h6 !font-sans !font-normal !leading-[1.2em]">Friday</h2>👗 Consignment fall pop-up | Shop more than 100 closets of gently used clothing, shoes and accessories at 50–80% off retail prices. | 10am–8pm, also open Saturday and Sunday | Iowa State Fairgrounds | <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Free!" data-vars-click-url="https://www.tickettailor.com/events/statemintwestdesmoines/2189953?utm_source=chatgpt.com" data-vars-content-id="a921dea2-140e-41f8-afa6-9d11291add5a" data-vars-headline="Go thrifting, dress up for an ACOTAR party this weekend" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.tickettailor.com/events/statemintwestdesmoines/2189953?utm_source=chatgpt.com" target="_blank">Free!</a>

Des Moines weekend plans Oct. 16-18

The Iowa Home Expo, Capital City Gaming Con and Buccaneers hockey.

<h2 class="text-h6 !font-sans !font-normal !leading-[1.2em]">Friday</h2>🏡 Iowa Home Expo | Explore home improvement ideas and meet local contractors and designers. | Noon-6pm, also open through the weekend | Iowa State Fairgrounds | <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Free!" data-vars-click-url="https://www.eventbrite.com/e/free-iowa-home-expo-october-2026-tickets-1985320136973" data-vars-content-id="b00d0db6-e32f-45be-aac6-c0c198b88be6" data-vars-headline="Des Moines weekend plans Oct. 16-18" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.eventbrite.com/e/free-iowa-home-expo-october-2026-tickets-1985320136973" target="_blank">Free!</a>

Valley Junction's historic past includes "booze orgy," murders

Learn about the historic district's "unique" past during walking tours this month.

The typically quaint Valley Junction neighborhood is unearthing some true tales of its less savory past, including headlines that warned of booze-filled orgies, gambling dens and plenty of murders.Why it matters: The Historic Valley Junction Foundation is sharing these stories during its <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="mayhem tours" data-vars-click-url="https://www.eventbrite.com/e/valley-junction-mayhem-tour-tickets-2002584655613" data-vars-content-id="24240b3f-33cd-438d-b40c-cb5b85f3d3c0" data-vars-headline="Valley Junction&#x27;s historic past includes &quot;booze orgy,&quot; murders" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.eventbrite.com/e/valley-junction-mayhem-tour-tickets-2002584655613" target="_blank">mayhem tours</a> the next two Saturdays before Halloween.

Central Iowa's peak fall colors are on the way 

Expect that kaleidoscope of colors by mid-October.

Leaf-peepers, gird your loins: Fall colors are creeping into central Iowa. The intrigue: We&#x27;re expected to hit peak fall colors in central Iowa around the end of this week.<ul><li>And the trees that have already turned have good color, according to the Iowa Department of Natural Resources. (Thanks, rain?)</li></ul>

Des Moines pizza: This pizza is cheese upon cheese

The burrata pizza at Hugo's puts all kinds of mozzarella on a slice.

We&#x27;re familiar with the stretchy, milky center of a burrata ball for our salads or charcuterie, but Hugo&#x27;s in the Drake neighborhood puts it to the ultimate test by putting it on its pizza.What it is: Prosciutto Burrata pizza ($20) with a red sauce, shredded mozzarella, prosciutto, basil leaf, sea salt and a warm burrata ball.

A coffee shop and drive-thru are open in Cumming

The new coffee shop is owned by a local family.

Roosters Coffee, <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="a new coffee shop with a drive-thru" data-vars-click-url="https://roosters-coffee.com/?fbclid=IwY2xjawVMjSlleHRuA2FlbQIxMABwZG9mAWJyaWQRMW5VYzdaQms5RVl4a01yODZzcnRjBmFwcF9pZBAyMjIwMzkxNzg4MjAwODkyAAEeAOV8jEgm1NbxuPSEVZtXE1_Ff3VEduM2e_8PzhKdA0EIIvZgJsptLoFDv6Q_aem_l4-7q3z-y3kGA8vHmueijw" data-vars-content-id="245d7ec1-4aa1-430b-9346-6193fbdf7dff" data-vars-headline="A coffee shop and drive-thru are open in Cumming" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://roosters-coffee.com/?fbclid=IwY2xjawVMjSlleHRuA2FlbQIxMABwZG9mAWJyaWQRMW5VYzdaQms5RVl4a01yODZzcnRjBmFwcF9pZBAyMjIwMzkxNzg4MjAwODkyAAEeAOV8jEgm1NbxuPSEVZtXE1_Ff3VEduM2e_8PzhKdA0EIIvZgJsptLoFDv6Q_aem_l4-7q3z-y3kGA8vHmueijw" target="_blank">a new coffee shop with a drive-thru</a>, has opened in Cumming.How it started: Owner Haley Gremler grew up in town and recently graduated from Iowa State after studying business management. Her father, Mark Gremler, owned land along G-14 and North 43rd Street, and her family decided to build the farmhouse-themed coffee shop.

Des Moines gets Kura Revolving Sushi, Mezze Mediterranean restaurant

From a revolving sushi bar to a new casual downtown option, there are plenty of places to eat.

If you&#x27;re looking to dine somewhere new, several restaurants and shops are opening soon or have already opened their doors.🍣 Kura Revolving Sushi: The <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="revolving sushi restaurant chain" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/des-moines/2025/11/04/conveyor-belt-sushi-opening-at-jordan-creek-town-center" data-vars-content-id="20ce98f6-0360-4203-8b08-1c73449f8161" data-vars-headline="Des Moines gets Kura Revolving Sushi, Mezze Mediterranean restaurant" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/des-moines/2025/11/04/conveyor-belt-sushi-opening-at-jordan-creek-town-center" target="_self">revolving sushi restaurant chain</a> is holding its soft opening Thursday.

New frozen cocktail and nacho bar opening in East Village

Narwhal's is opening its first Iowa franchise this year.

Des Moines&#x27; East Village is getting boozy slushies and unconventional nachos this winter.Driving the news: Narwhal&#x27;s Crafted, a St. Louis-based frozen cocktail bar, is opening its first Iowa franchise at 418 E. Grand Ave.

First bite: Bali Bulay brings Indonesian food to Des Moines

Bali Bulay turns years of pop-ups into a permanent lunch spot.

<a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Bali Bulay Indonesian Satay" data-vars-click-url="https://www.facebook.com/balibulay" data-vars-content-id="353aa5d8-6076-4117-b539-94aba6281f02" data-vars-headline="First bite: Bali Bulay brings Indonesian food to Des Moines" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.facebook.com/balibulay" target="_blank">Bali Bulay Indonesian Satay</a> has opened a permanent downtown Des Moines home.Why it matters: The restaurant gives the metro something new: Father-son owners Franklin and Kaleb Creighton Crum say it&#x27;s Iowa&#x27;s first Indonesian restaurant.

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