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Fed leaves rates steady as governor Lisa Cook dissents

Fed officials have signaled that they may well raise interest rates again by year-end.

Economy

The Federal Reserve left interest rates unchanged Wednesday, with two officials dissenting, including Lisa Cook, the governor President Trump is seeking to fire.Why it matters: Fed officials have signaled they may raise rates again by year-end but are in no hurry, preferring to move gradually with more data in hand.

Iran pressed to make nuke concessions as massive post-midterms strikes loom

Mediators are working to reach a diplomatic off-ramp.

World

Regional mediators led by Qatar are trying to reach a diplomatic deal to restart negotiations between the U.S. and <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Iran" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/world/iran" data-vars-content-id="03c0544d-1b85-430a-8f63-14a2b9ae25a4" data-vars-headline="Iran pressed to make nuke concessions as massive post-midterms strikes loom" 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">Iran</a> and prevent the resumption of war after the midterm elections, three U.S., Israeli and regional sources say.<ul><li>The Qataris are working to convince Iran to allow UN inspectors to visit its bombed nuclear sites in return for some sanctions relief from the U.S. </li></ul>

Exclusive: Ad backfiring on Ramaswamy, GOP poll finds

The poll's findings underscore Republicans' anxiety over Ramaswamy airing the attack on Amy Acton.

Politics & Policy

Republicans fear that <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Vivek Ramaswamy" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/10/21/ramaswamy-ad-acton-mother-ohio" data-vars-content-id="c4b475e1-5e19-4dfc-83d9-c51705368a3d" data-vars-headline="Exclusive: Ad backfiring on Ramaswamy, GOP poll finds" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/10/21/ramaswamy-ad-acton-mother-ohio" target="_self">Vivek Ramaswamy</a>&#x27;s explosive attack ad featuring his opponent&#x27;s estranged mother could cost them the Ohio governor&#x27;s race, based on new internal polling that shows him falling further behind, Axios has learned.Why it matters: The poll&#x27;s findings underscore Republicans&#x27; anxiety over Ramaswamy&#x27;s decision to air the deeply personal attack on Democrat <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Amy Acton" data-vars-click-url="https://www.nbcnews.com/politics/2026-election/amy-acton-says-s-learning-new-things-childhood-wake-attack-ad-mother-rcna605997" data-vars-content-id="c4b475e1-5e19-4dfc-83d9-c51705368a3d" data-vars-headline="Exclusive: Ad backfiring on Ramaswamy, GOP poll finds" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.nbcnews.com/politics/2026-election/amy-acton-says-s-learning-new-things-childhood-wake-attack-ad-mother-rcna605997" target="_blank">Amy Acton</a> despite warnings from some fellow Republicans that it crossed a line.

The 31 races that could shift the legal fight against Trump

Attorneys general of both parties act as key policymakers.

Thirty-one attorney general races could reshape who challenges <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="President Trump" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/politics-policy/donald-trump" data-vars-content-id="7107184e-61a9-434b-9d24-a78911381cf1" data-vars-headline="The 31 races that could shift the legal fight against Trump" 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">President Trump</a> in court and who holds some of America&#x27;s biggest <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="corporations accountable" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/03/10/live-nation-ticketmaster-state-antitrust" data-vars-content-id="7107184e-61a9-434b-9d24-a78911381cf1" data-vars-headline="The 31 races that could shift the legal fight against Trump" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/03/10/live-nation-ticketmaster-state-antitrust" target="_self">corporations accountable</a>.Why it matters: With Republicans controlling Washington, Democratic attorneys general have become some of the most powerful challengers curtailing the Trump administration&#x27;s policies on <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="elections" data-vars-click-url="https://www.scotusblog.com/2026/09/supreme-court-denies-trump-administrations-request-to-implement-parts-of-usps-rule-on-mail-in-vo/" data-vars-content-id="7107184e-61a9-434b-9d24-a78911381cf1" data-vars-headline="The 31 races that could shift the legal fight against Trump" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.scotusblog.com/2026/09/supreme-court-denies-trump-administrations-request-to-implement-parts-of-usps-rule-on-mail-in-vo/" target="_blank">elections</a>, <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="tariffs" data-vars-click-url="https://www.doj.state.or.us/media-home/news-media-releases/ag-rayfield-wins-second-tariff-lawsuit/" data-vars-content-id="7107184e-61a9-434b-9d24-a78911381cf1" data-vars-headline="The 31 races that could shift the legal fight against Trump" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.doj.state.or.us/media-home/news-media-releases/ag-rayfield-wins-second-tariff-lawsuit/" target="_blank">tariffs</a>, federal <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="funding" data-vars-click-url="https://www.atg.wa.gov/news/news-releases/washington-state-leads-lawsuit-prevent-department-education-s-cuts-school-mental" data-vars-content-id="7107184e-61a9-434b-9d24-a78911381cf1" data-vars-headline="The 31 races that could shift the legal fight against Trump" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.atg.wa.gov/news/news-releases/washington-state-leads-lawsuit-prevent-department-education-s-cuts-school-mental" target="_blank">funding</a>, National Guard <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="deployments" data-vars-click-url="https://www.scotusblog.com/2025/12/supreme-court-rejects-trumps-effort-to-deploy-national-guard-in-illinois/" data-vars-content-id="7107184e-61a9-434b-9d24-a78911381cf1" data-vars-headline="The 31 races that could shift the legal fight against Trump" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.scotusblog.com/2025/12/supreme-court-rejects-trumps-effort-to-deploy-national-guard-in-illinois/" target="_blank">deployments</a> and more.

Israel faces weeks of political wrangling after deadlocked election

Remaining as a caretaker prime minister could be Netanyahu's best option.

TEL AVIV, Israel — Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu&#x27;s electoral coalition opened a sizable lead over Gadi Eisenkot&#x27;s opposition bloc with 85 percent of the vote counted.<ul><li>But while Netanyahu outperformed exit polls, which had Eisenkot&#x27;s opposition coalition ahead, neither bloc will clear a 61-seat majority. That sets the stage for weeks of wrangling over the country&#x27;s next government.</li></ul>Why it matters: Netanyahu will emerge from the election down but not out. His bloc is on pace to secure 53 seats — 11 fewer than he currently commands. But Eisenkot&#x27;s bloc trails with 48 seats, leaving both men without a clear mandate to lead a government.

This 69-year-old woman started powerlifting in retirement

Elizabeth Hendrix is entering powerlifting competitions.

Culture

Most women don&#x27;t start powerlifting in their 60s, but at 69, Elizabeth Hendrix feels stronger than ever.Why it matters: Hendrix went from avoiding athletics her entire life to competing in powerlifting, discovering a new sense of purpose along the way.

$200M arts center proposal clashes with Heart of America plans

Heat of America CEO says his $24 million project is already in design stages.

News

A $200 million performing arts center proposed for the site of Des Moines&#x27; former City Hall last week already faces an uphill battle as a neighboring development advances on land needed for the projectWhy it matters: A City Council decision as early as next month could effectively kill one of the two projects before construction begins.

Des Moines considers e-scooter rules, banning bikes on some sidewalks

The City Council is workshopping a future ordinance.

Des Moines is considering a ban on high-speed electric scooters and similar motorized devices on public streets, sidewalks and trails.Why it matters: Newer electric scooters can exceed 50 mph, raising safety concerns because kids and teens may not realize how powerful the devices are, Des Moines city engineer Steven Naber says.

For Des Moines family, a dad's deportation leaves lasting trauma

A West Des Moines student has struggled at school since her father was deported in September.

Since her father was deported to Mexico last month, 14-year-old Abigail Lopez has struggled to get through the school day in West Des Moines, <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Midwest Newsroom reports" data-vars-click-url="https://www.iowapublicradio.org/ipr-news/2026-10-14/immigration-ice-parent-children-deportation-separation-trauma" data-vars-content-id="661ef43f-d96b-4b46-8000-191d545dd869" data-vars-headline="For Des Moines family, a dad&#x27;s deportation leaves lasting trauma" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.iowapublicradio.org/ipr-news/2026-10-14/immigration-ice-parent-children-deportation-separation-trauma" target="_blank">Midwest Newsroom reports</a>.Why it matters: The fear and trauma of losing a parent to deportation can follow children into adulthood, affecting their education, mental health and even physical development, researchers say.

Where Rob Sand and Zach Lahn differ on voter priorities

The gubernatorial candidates have different priorities.

Politics

During the first <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="gubernatorial debate" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/des-moines/2026/10/05/iowa-governor-debates-sand-lahn-2026" data-vars-content-id="09cd3789-e64c-4921-8f1b-992848c9ae5e" data-vars-headline="Where Rob Sand and Zach Lahn differ on voter priorities" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/des-moines/2026/10/05/iowa-governor-debates-sand-lahn-2026" target="_self">gubernatorial debate</a> last week, Democrat Rob Sand and Republican Zach Lahn <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="shared differing priorities" data-vars-click-url="https://www.c-span.org/program/campaign-2026/iowa-gubernatorial-debate/686200" data-vars-content-id="09cd3789-e64c-4921-8f1b-992848c9ae5e" data-vars-headline="Where Rob Sand and Zach Lahn differ on voter priorities" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.c-span.org/program/campaign-2026/iowa-gubernatorial-debate/686200" target="_blank">shared differing priorities</a> on several voter issues:💵 Cost of living: Lahn said he would help families lower costs through tax cuts. <ul><li>He supports ending tax breaks for data centers and eliminating property taxes on primary homes. He also wants to help make local businesses more competitive by increasing the state budget for antitrust lawsuits.</li></ul>

Sand and Lahn to face off in first of four Iowa gubernatorial debates

Iowa bucks a national trend with four governor debates this fall.

Iowa voters get their first of four chances Tuesday to see Republican Zach Lahn and Democrat Rob Sand debate face-to-face before the Nov. 3 election.Why it matters: Iowa&#x27;s four gubernatorial debates make it a national outlier as face-to-face matchups disappear from competitive races.

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.

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.

Des Moines council members cross party lines to endorse Zach Nunn

Des Moines council members Joe Gatto and Mike Simonson voice their support for Nunn in a TV ad.

Des Moines City Council members Mike Simonson and Joe Gatto, both Democrats, are featured in <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="a TV advertisement" data-vars-click-url="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VorSukMsWR0" data-vars-content-id="3809e5db-8b49-4bea-8319-005a9e6a204f" data-vars-headline="Des Moines council members cross party lines to endorse Zach Nunn" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VorSukMsWR0" target="_blank">a TV advertisement</a> this week for U.S. Rep. Zach Nunn, the Republican incumbent running to keep his seat in Iowa&#x27;s 3rd District.Why it matters: The cross-party endorsements are efforts to appeal to voters beyond party lines, but they have also sparked backlash from Des Moines Democrats, including a <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="pledge to withdraw future financial support" data-vars-click-url="https://www.facebook.com/jack.hatch.39/posts/i-just-emailed-the-following-statement-to-des-moines-councilman-mike-simonson-te/2627048864388262/" data-vars-content-id="3809e5db-8b49-4bea-8319-005a9e6a204f" data-vars-headline="Des Moines council members cross party lines to endorse Zach Nunn" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.facebook.com/jack.hatch.39/posts/i-just-emailed-the-following-statement-to-des-moines-councilman-mike-simonson-te/2627048864388262/" target="_blank">pledge to withdraw future financial support</a>.

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.

A $50M apartment  building named after this dog opens in Des Moines

A beloved four-legged friend inspired this 161-unit development.

<a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="The Aston" data-vars-click-url="https://astoneastvillage.com/" data-vars-content-id="cd56ca84-7197-4b3d-a0f1-c71137f2f659" data-vars-headline="A $50M apartment building named after this dog opens in Des Moines" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://astoneastvillage.com/" target="_blank">The Aston</a> — a nearly $50 million luxury apartment project in Des Moines&#x27; East Village that&#x27;s named after a dog — is now preleasing.State of play: The seven-story development at 603 E. Sixth St. replaces the former American College of Hairstyling building, which Heart of America Group (HOA) demolished to make way for the apartments.

Iowa Democrats hope for a breakthrough in 2026 midterm election

Economic dissatisfaction, open seats and an unusually engaged electorate could give Democrats an opening.

Republicans dominate Iowa politics right now, but economic dissatisfaction, open seats and an unusually engaged electorate could give Democrats an opening.Why it matters: Iowa Democrats are hoping the midterm election is their breakthrough moment after a decade of Republicans wielding a statehouse trifecta and holding most of the state&#x27;s congressional seats.

Des Moines advances $5.3M townhome project

The 15-unit project is expected to break ground this winter.

Construction of a $5.3 million townhome project along Des Moines&#x27; Hubbell Avenue is expected to begin in the coming months.Why it matters: It will add family-sized housing to a metro facing an <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="affordable housing shortage" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/des-moines/2025/10/27/des-moines-affordable-housing-shortage" data-vars-content-id="fdbae013-b02f-435d-a8a1-ec0cbf8b49a2" data-vars-headline="Des Moines advances $5.3M townhome project" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/des-moines/2025/10/27/des-moines-affordable-housing-shortage" target="_self">affordable housing shortage</a>.

Nearly $61M pours into Iowa's biggest political races

Donors are spending big as Iowa becomes a 2026 political battleground.

Candidates in Iowa&#x27;s biggest races for <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="governor and Congress" data-vars-click-url="https://link.axios.com/click/48034285.92/aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuYXhpb3MuY29tL2xvY2FsL2Rlcy1tb2luZXMvMjAyNi8wOC8yMC9pb3dhLXNlbmF0ZS1nb3Zlcm5vci1yYWNlcy0yMDI2LWNvb2stcmF0aW5ncz91dG1fc291cmNlPW5ld3NsZXR0ZXImdXRtX21lZGl1bT1lbWFpbCZ1dG1fY2FtcGFpZ249c2VuZHRvX2xvY2FsbmV3c2xldHRlcnRlc3Qmc3RyZWFtPXRvcA/6000782188cdd8159c5b680eBb8badde4" data-vars-content-id="b33da62e-5625-4e5e-b15c-2d2bef872ef7" data-vars-headline="Nearly $61M pours into Iowa&#x27;s biggest political races" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://link.axios.com/click/48034285.92/aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuYXhpb3MuY29tL2xvY2FsL2Rlcy1tb2luZXMvMjAyNi8wOC8yMC9pb3dhLXNlbmF0ZS1nb3Zlcm5vci1yYWNlcy0yMDI2LWNvb2stcmF0aW5ncz91dG1fc291cmNlPW5ld3NsZXR0ZXImdXRtX21lZGl1bT1lbWFpbCZ1dG1fY2FtcGFpZ249c2VuZHRvX2xvY2FsbmV3c2xldHRlcnRlc3Qmc3RyZWFtPXRvcA/6000782188cdd8159c5b680eBb8badde4" target="_self">governor and Congress</a> raised nearly $61 million in the latest reporting period.Why it matters: Money is pouring into Iowa because the state could help decide control of the U.S. Senate and House while also electing a new governor.

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.

Things to Do

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 weekend plans: Oct. 9-11

From a vintage festival to a doggy costume party, there's plenty to do this weekend.

<h2 class="text-h6 !font-sans !font-normal !leading-[1.2em]">Friday</h2>🪦 Jordan Cemetery Tour | Explore local history with costumed reenactments, a headstone restoration demonstration and a presentation on cemetery symbolism. | 9am–12pm | 2001 Fuller Rd., West Des Moines | <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Admission: $25" data-vars-click-url="https://www.wdmhs.org/historic-cemetery-tour/" data-vars-content-id="70b5a46c-8c49-4e1d-9972-07737a3545c9" data-vars-headline="Des Moines weekend plans: Oct. 9-11" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.wdmhs.org/historic-cemetery-tour/" target="_blank">Admission: $25</a>

A coffee shop and drive-thru are open in Cumming

The new coffee shop is owned by a local family.

Food and Drink

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.

We tried AE's new Scotcheroo milk

The new chocolate milk flavor is good on its own or with some baileys.

👋 Jason here: I tried AE Dairy&#x27;s new <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Scotcheroo milk" data-vars-click-url="https://www.facebook.com/AEDairy/posts/-new-scotcheroo-milk-quite-possibly-the-most-midwest-milk-ever-no-cooking-no-wai/1547045627454772/" data-vars-content-id="8c6ddf1b-b76c-4609-9f93-f48100928e5c" data-vars-headline="We tried AE&#x27;s new Scotcheroo milk" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.facebook.com/AEDairy/posts/-new-scotcheroo-milk-quite-possibly-the-most-midwest-milk-ever-no-cooking-no-wai/1547045627454772/" target="_blank">Scotcheroo milk</a> this week.State of play: It tastes so much like the real treat that I&#x27;m convinced someone liquefied an entire pan of bars I remember as a kid.

First bite: After flood, LUX Waukee reopens

The restaurant flooded last week and has now reopened.

The recently opened <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="LUX Asian Restaurant and Bar" data-vars-click-url="https://www.facebook.com/p/LUX-Waukee-61589835900324/" data-vars-content-id="96ceeddf-2250-4b45-bdaf-aba0c9e05061" data-vars-headline="First bite: After flood, LUX Waukee reopens" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.facebook.com/p/LUX-Waukee-61589835900324/" target="_blank">LUX Asian Restaurant and Bar</a> is bringing Asian fare and a swanky cocktail-bar vibe to Waukee.Why it matters: It gives the Grand Prairie Parkway corridor another destination as restaurants and retail follow Waukee&#x27;s rapid growth.

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