A weekly podcast focused on one theme in the news.Host and States Newsroom publisher Chris Fitzsimon, with producer Mallory Cheng, will explore one issue with the help from local journalists, experts and community members who are experiencing the fallout of sweeping changes happening across the country.By zooming into one story each week, Stories From The States contextualizes what is happening now.New episodes every Friday.For more information visit, <a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/podcast/stories-states">https://www.newsfromthestates.com/podcast/stories-states</a>. Subscribe to Stories From the States on <a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/stories-from-the-states/id1847663106">Apple Podcasts</a>, <a href="https://open.spotify.com/show/2TfHKVIvoHKZVTGN3DL2WM">Spotify</a> and <a href="https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL72cugzwBvh94gElF228ZiklLWVK2gxuJ">Youtube</a>.

President Donald Trump’s second term has been marked by aggressive attacks on the press that have led to restrictions in access, the search of a reporter’s home, heated public exchanges and even arrests. Journalist <a href="https://tennesseelookout.com/2026/04/01/nashville-journalist-released-from-ice-detention-details-retaliation-claims/">Estefany Rodríguez</a> was arrested and detained by Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents on March 4, 2026 in Tennessee. The Nashville Noticias reporter was held in ICE custody for 15 days.   Since her release, Rodríguez and her lawyers have asserted in court that the federal government violated her rights under the First and Fifth Amendments. They claim Rodríguez’s arrest was connected to her reporting on ICE activities in Middle Tennessee over the past several months.  The case raises the question: With threats to journalists rising under Trump’s second term, how are they being protected? In Episode 23, you’ll hear from <a href="https://tennesseelookout.com/">Tennessee Lookout</a> senior reporter <a href="https://tennesseelookout.com/author/anita-wadhwani/">Anita Wadhwani</a>. She’s been covering Rodríguez’s case and how members of the Tennessee media community are reacting. Journalists and news outlets across the country are again trying to navigate how to report in these times.  <a href="https://www.rcfp.org/author/lisa-zycherman/">Lisa Zycherman</a>, vice president of Legal Programs of Reporters Committee for Freedom of the Press, is helping out. The organization provides legal services to journalists and resources to protect First Amendment freedoms and the newsgathering rights of reporters. Finally, <a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/newsletter/evening-wrap">Evening Wrap</a> newsletter author Danielle Gaines shares the top stories she’s watching. Episode produced and edited by Mallory Cheng. Music for Stories From The States composed by <a href="https://www.davidsingerfilm.com/">David Singer</a>.  Click <a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/episode/when-ice-enforcement-and-first-amendment-collide">here</a> for the full transcript. Relevant reading from States Newsroom outlets and partners: <ul>
<li>
<a href="https://tennesseelookout.com/2026/04/01/nashville-journalist-released-from-ice-detention-details-retaliation-claims/">Nashville journalist released from ICE detention details retaliation claims</a> (Tennessee Lookout)
</li>
<li>
<a href="https://wisconsinexaminer.com/2026/03/25/republican-anti-slapp-legislation-opposed-by-legislator-who-targeted-local-paper-fails/">Republican ‘anti-SLAPP’ legislation, opposed by legislator who targeted local paper, fails</a> (Wisconsin Examiner)</li>
<li>
<a href="https://minnesotareformer.com/2026/01/29/first-amendment-lawyers-say-minneapolis-ice-observers-are-protected-by-constitution/">First Amendment lawyers say Minneapolis ICE observers are protected by Constitution</a> (Minnesota Reformer)</li>
<li>
<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/briefs/missouri-senate-passes-bill-aimed-at-meritless-lawsuits-targeting-free-speech/">Missouri Senate passes bill aimed at meritless lawsuits targeting free speech</a> (Missouri Independent) </li>
</ul>Photo: The arrest of Nashville Noticias reporter Estefany Maria Rodríguez Florez on March 4 by ICE agents has sparked national attention. (Photo: courtesy of Nashville Noticias)

President Donald Trump’s second term has been marked by aggressive attacks on the press that have led to restrictions in access, the search of a reporter’s home, heated public exchanges and even arrests.


Journalist Estefany Rodríguez was arrested and detained by Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents on March 4, 2026 in Tennessee. The Nashville Noticias reporter was held in ICE custody for 15 days.  


Since her release, Rodríguez and her lawyers have asserted in court that the federal government violated her rights under the First and Fifth Amendments. They claim Rodríguez’s arrest was connected to her reporting on ICE activities in Middle Tennessee over the past several months. 


The case raises the question: With threats to journalists rising under Trump’s second term, how are they being protected?


In Episode 23, you’ll hear from Tennessee Lookout senior reporter Anita Wadhwani. She’s been covering Rodríguez’s case and how members of the Tennessee media community are reacting.


Journalists and news outlets across the country are again trying to navigate how to report in these times. 


Lisa Zycherman, vice president of Legal Programs of Reporters Committee for Freedom of the Press, is helping out. The organization provides legal services to journalists and resources to protect First Amendment freedoms and the newsgathering rights of reporters.


Finally, Evening Wrap newsletter author Danielle Gaines shares the top stories she’s watching.


Episode produced and edited by Mallory Cheng. Music for Stories From The States composed by David Singer. 


Click here for the full transcript.


Relevant reading from States Newsroom outlets and partners: 


Nashville journalist released from ICE detention details retaliation claims (Tennessee Lookout)


Republican ‘anti-SLAPP’ legislation, opposed by legislator who targeted local paper, fails (Wisconsin Examiner)
First Amendment lawyers say Minneapolis ICE observers are protected by Constitution (Minnesota Reformer)
Missouri Senate passes bill aimed at meritless lawsuits targeting free speech (Missouri Independent) 
Photo: The arrest of Nashville Noticias reporter Estefany Maria Rodríguez Florez on March 4 by ICE agents has sparked national attention. (Photo: courtesy of Nashville Noticias)

When ICE enforcement and the First Amendment collide

West Virginia lawmakers fought until the wee hours of the morning – and the final minutes of this year’s session March 14 over <a href="https://westvirginiawatch.com/2026/03/15/disgusting-government-chaos-in-house-over-raylees-law-ends-wvs-session-with-cries-shouts/">Raylee’s Law</a>. Named for 8-year-old Raylee Browning, the bill would have prevented a parent from pulling a child out of public school to homeschool if social services is investigating abuse or neglect in the home. One of the highest profile bills of the session, the measure boasted bipartisan support. But it faced fierce opposition from homeschool lobbyists, parents and some Republicans, calling it an attack on parental rights. In Episode 22, you’ll hear from <a href="https://westvirginiawatch.com/">West Virginia Watch</a> reporter <a href="https://westvirginiawatch.com/author/aknisely/">Amelia Ferrell Knisely</a>. She’s been reporting closely on this issue. You’ll also hear from Republican West Virginia <a href="https://www.wvlegislature.gov/senate1/lawmaker.cfm?member=Senator%20Grady">state Senator Amy Grady</a>. She championed Raylee’s Law and worked across the aisle to try to get it passed. She’s also a 4th grade public school teacher and serves as the chair of the West Virginia Senate Education Committee. Finally, <a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/newsletter/evening-wrap">Evening Wrap</a> newsletter author Danielle Gaines shares the top stories she’s watching. Episode produced and edited by Mallory Cheng. Music for Stories From The States composed by <a href="https://www.davidsingerfilm.com/">David Singer</a>.  Click <a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/episode/abhorrent-chaos-takes-over-debate-wv-child-abuse-bill">here</a> for the full transcript. Relevant reading from States Newsroom outlets and partners: <ul>
<li>
<a href="https://westvirginiawatch.com/2026/03/17/wv-house-members-criticize-running-clock-out-on-raylees-law-speaker-hanshaw-offers-no-explanation/">WV House members criticize running clock out on Raylee’s Law, Speaker Hanshaw offers no explanation</a> (West Virginia Watch)</li>
<li>
<a href="https://stateline.org/2026/01/29/these-kids-are-invisible-child-abuse-deaths-spur-clash-over-homeschool-regulation/">‘These kids are invisible’: Child abuse deaths spur clash over homeschool regulation</a> (Stateline)</li>
<li>
<a href="https://ctmirror.org/2026/03/11/ct-homeschool-bill-public-hearing/">CT bill draws homeschool families to Capitol in emotional hearing</a> (CT Mirror)</li>
<li>
<a href="https://capitolnewsillinois.com/news/homeschool-bill-stalls-in-illinois-house-but-sponsor-says-its-still-alive/">Homeschool bill stalls in Illinois House, but sponsor says it’s still alive</a> (Capital News Illinois)</li>
</ul> Got questions? An episode idea? Email us at <a href="mailto:podcasts@statesnewsroom.com">podcast@statesnewsroom.com</a> Photo: Del. Shawn Fluharty, D-Ohio, held up a poster of Raylee Browning, a child who died from abuse and neglect after her parents removed her from public school to homeschool her. Raylee’s Law would prevent parents from removing their child from school to homeschool them if a teacher has reported them for abuse. (Perry Bennett | West Virginia Legislative Photography)

West Virginia lawmakers fought until the wee hours of the morning – and the final minutes of this year’s session March 14 over Raylee’s Law. Named for 8-year-old Raylee Browning, the bill would have prevented a parent from pulling a child out of public school to homeschool if social services is investigating abuse or neglect in the home.


One of the highest profile bills of the session, the measure boasted bipartisan support. But it faced fierce opposition from homeschool lobbyists, parents and some Republicans, calling it an attack on parental rights.


In Episode 22, you’ll hear from West Virginia Watch reporter Amelia Ferrell Knisely. She’s been reporting closely on this issue.


You’ll also hear from Republican West Virginia state Senator Amy Grady. She championed Raylee’s Law and worked across the aisle to try to get it passed.


She’s also a 4th grade public school teacher and serves as the chair of the West Virginia Senate Education Committee.


Finally, Evening Wrap newsletter author Danielle Gaines shares the top stories she’s watching.


Episode produced and edited by Mallory Cheng. Music for Stories From The States composed by David Singer. 


Click here for the full transcript.


Relevant reading from States Newsroom outlets and partners: 


WV House members criticize running clock out on Raylee’s Law, Speaker Hanshaw offers no explanation (West Virginia Watch)
‘These kids are invisible’: Child abuse deaths spur clash over homeschool regulation (Stateline)
CT bill draws homeschool families to Capitol in emotional hearing (CT Mirror)
Homeschool bill stalls in Illinois House, but sponsor says it’s still alive (Capital News Illinois)


Got questions? An episode idea? Email us at podcast@statesnewsroom.com


Photo: Del. Shawn Fluharty, D-Ohio, held up a poster of Raylee Browning, a child who died from abuse and neglect after her parents removed her from public school to homeschool her. Raylee’s Law would prevent parents from removing their child from school to homeschool them if a teacher has reported them for abuse. (Perry Bennett | West Virginia Legislative Photography)

‘This is abhorrent’: Chaos takes over debate of WV child abuse bill

At least 37 states offer some sort of financial incentives to businesses building data centers. The incentives aren’t just a drop in the bucket either. In Virginia, for instance, the state has notched up about <a href="https://stateline.org/2026/02/24/data-center-tax-breaks-are-on-the-chopping-block-in-some-states/">$1.6 billion</a> in data center tax breaks.  Public opposition is on the rise, however, and some states such as Virginia and Ohio are reconsidering whether to keep offering the financial breaks.  Stateline’s <a href="https://stateline.org/author/mfitzgerald/">Madyson Fitzgerald</a> breaks down the change in tune. In Episode 21, you’ll also meet Max Moran, a sixth-generation farmer from Mason County, Kentucky. The area has been known for its tobacco market, but now it’s making headlines for its fight against a proposed hyperscale data center. Moran, who also is a city commissioner of Germantown, Kentucky, helps lead <a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/2080158139061446">“We Are Mason County,”</a> a group pushing back against the proposed project.  Finally, <a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/newsletter/evening-wrap">Evening Wrap</a> newsletter author Danielle Gaines shares the top stories she’s watching. Episode produced and edited by Mallory Cheng. Music for Stories From The States composed by <a href="https://www.davidsingerfilm.com/">David Singer</a>. Click here for the full transcript:  Relevant reading from States Newsroom outlets and partners: <ul>
<li>
<a href="https://stateline.org/2026/03/06/temporarily-banning-data-centers-draws-more-interest-from-state-local-officials/https://stateline.org/2026/03/06/temporarily-banning-data-centers-draws-more-interest-from-state-local-officials/">Temporarily banning data centers draws more interest from state, local officials</a> (Stateline)</li>
<li>
<a href="https://penncapital-star.com/energy-environment/should-data-centers-pay-up-front-or-build-their-own-power-plants/">Should data centers pay up front or build their own power plants?</a> (Penn Capital-Star)</li>
<li>
<a href="https://nevadacurrent.com/2026/03/26/lawmakers-in-driest-state-weigh-excessive-water-and-energy-needs-of-data-centers-they-court/">Lawmakers in driest state weigh excessive water and energy needs of data centers they court</a> (Nevada Current)</li>
<li>
<a href="http://nacapitalchronicle.com/2026/03/26/that-1-incentive-to-encourage-data-center-approvals-final-deal-watered-it-down/">That 1% incentive to encourage data center approvals? Final deal watered it down</a> (Indiana Capital Chronicle)</li>
<li>
<a href="https://southdakotasearchlight.com/briefs/data-center-restrictions-signed-into-south-dakota-law-after-push-for-incentives-failed/">Data center restrictions signed into South Dakota law after push for incentives failed</a> (South Dakota Searchlight)</li>
</ul> Got questions? An episode idea? Email us at <a href="mailto:podcasts@statesnewsroom.com">podcast@statesnewsroom.com</a> Photo: Attendees gather at a Maysville-Mason County Joint Planning Commission on September 3, 2025, including members of “We Are Mason County” who expressed their concerns about a data center project. (Photo courtesy of Max Moran)

At least 37 states offer some sort of financial incentives to businesses building data centers. The incentives aren’t just a drop in the bucket either. In Virginia, for instance, the state has notched up about $1.6 billion in data center tax breaks. 


Public opposition is on the rise, however, and some states such as Virginia and Ohio are reconsidering whether to keep offering the financial breaks. 


Stateline’s Madyson Fitzgerald breaks down the change in tune.


In Episode 21, you’ll also meet Max Moran, a sixth-generation farmer from Mason County, Kentucky. The area has been known for its tobacco market, but now it’s making headlines for its fight against a proposed hyperscale data center.


Moran, who also is a city commissioner of Germantown, Kentucky, helps lead “We Are Mason County,” a group pushing back against the proposed project. 


Finally, Evening Wrap newsletter author Danielle Gaines shares the top stories she’s watching.


Episode produced and edited by Mallory Cheng. Music for Stories From The States composed by David Singer.


Click here for the full transcript: 


Relevant reading from States Newsroom outlets and partners: 


Temporarily banning data centers draws more interest from state, local officials (Stateline)
Should data centers pay up front or build their own power plants? (Penn Capital-Star)
Lawmakers in driest state weigh excessive water and energy needs of data centers they court (Nevada Current)
That 1% incentive to encourage data center approvals? Final deal watered it down (Indiana Capital Chronicle)
Data center restrictions signed into South Dakota law after push for incentives failed (South Dakota Searchlight)


Got questions? An episode idea? Email us at podcast@statesnewsroom.com


Photo: Attendees gather at a Maysville-Mason County Joint Planning Commission on September 3, 2025, including members of “We Are Mason County” who expressed their concerns about a data center project. (Photo courtesy of Max Moran)

Data center dilemma: Why money isn’t winning over communities

States legislators have advanced a record number of bills <a href="https://www.aclu.org/legislative-attacks-on-lgbtq-rights-2026?state=">attacking LGBTQ rights</a> over the past few years. Many bills include, but aren’t limited to, restrictions on access to health care, forced outings in schools or barriers to accurate IDs. In February, the Kansas legislature passed a new law that invalidated driver’s licenses and criminalizes bathroom use for transgender residents. Trans people in Kansas are worried about living in the state.  In Episode 20, we’ll hear from <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/">Kansas Reflector</a> editor-in-chief, <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/sherman-smith/">Sherman Smith</a>. He and his team have been covering the controversial legislation, which was fast-tracked by the legislature’s GOP majority.   We’ll also look at how the American Civil Liberties Union is responding. The ACLU is tracking almost <a href="https://www.aclu.org/legislative-attacks-on-lgbtq-rights-2026?state=">500 anti-LBGTQ bills</a> across the country. The Trans Legislation Tracker also notes that <a href="https://translegislation.com/">over 20 anti-trans bills</a> have been passed in state legislatures.  We’ll hear from <a href="https://www.aclu.org/bios/harper-seldin">Harper Seldin</a>, a senior staff attorney for the ACLU's LGBTQ &amp; HIV Rights Project who has been on the ground fighting these bills, including in Kansas.   Finally, <a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/newsletter/evening-wrap">Evening Wrap</a> newsletter author Danielle Gaines shares the top stories she’s watching. Episode produced and edited by Mallory Cheng. Music for Stories From The States composed by <a href="https://www.davidsingerfilm.com/">David Singer</a>. Click <a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/episode/its-dire-closer-look-new-anti-trans-law-kansas">here</a> for the full transcript.  Relevant reading from States Newsroom outlets and partners: <ul>
<li>
<a href="https://www.aclu.org/legislative-attacks-on-lgbtq-rights-2026?state=">Mapping Attacks on LGBTQ Rights in U.S. State Legislatures in 2026</a> (ACLU)</li>
<li>
<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2026/02/26/trans-kansans-struggle-with-reality-of-legislatures-cruelty-as-drivers-licenses-are-invalidated/">Trans Kansans struggle with Legislature’s ‘cruelty’ as driver’s licenses are invalidated </a>(Kansas Reflector)</li>
<li>
<a href="https://coloradonewsline.com/briefs/anti-trans-ballot-measures-colorado/">Two anti-trans ballot measures will appear on 2026 Colorado ballot</a> (Colorado Newsline)</li>
<li>
<a href="https://utahnewsdispatch.com/2026/03/02/transgender-utahns-fight-bills-in-utah-legislature/">With a new support crew, trans Utahns fight a range of bills in the Legislature</a> (Utah News Dispatch)</li>
<li>
<a href="https://mainemorningstar.com/2026/03/17/mainers-to-vote-on-whether-to-end-transgender-inclusion-in-school-sports/">Mainers to vote on whether to end transgender inclusion in school sports</a> (Maine Morning Star)</li>
</ul> Got questions? An episode idea? Email us at <a href="mailto:podcasts@statesnewsroom.com">podcast@statesnewsroom.com</a> Photo: A group of trans activists pose for pictures on Feb. 6, 2026, at the Kansas Statehouse, advocating against a bathroom bill that eventually passed. (Photo by Sherman Smith/Kansas Reflector)

States legislators have advanced a record number of bills attacking LGBTQ rights over the past few years. Many bills include, but aren’t limited to, restrictions on access to health care, forced outings in schools or barriers to accurate IDs.


In February, the Kansas legislature passed a new law that invalidated driver’s licenses and criminalizes bathroom use for transgender residents. Trans people in Kansas are worried about living in the state. 


In Episode 20, we’ll hear from Kansas Reflector editor-in-chief, Sherman Smith. He and his team have been covering the controversial legislation, which was fast-tracked by the legislature’s GOP majority.  


We’ll also look at how the American Civil Liberties Union is responding. The ACLU is tracking almost 500 anti-LBGTQ bills across the country. The Trans Legislation Tracker also notes that over 20 anti-trans bills have been passed in state legislatures. 


We’ll hear from Harper Seldin, a senior staff attorney for the ACLU's LGBTQ & HIV Rights Project who has been on the ground fighting these bills, including in Kansas.  


Finally, Evening Wrap newsletter author Danielle Gaines shares the top stories she’s watching.


Episode produced and edited by Mallory Cheng. Music for Stories From The States composed by David Singer.


Click here for the full transcript. 


Relevant reading from States Newsroom outlets and partners: 


Mapping Attacks on LGBTQ Rights in U.S. State Legislatures in 2026 (ACLU)
Trans Kansans struggle with Legislature’s ‘cruelty’ as driver’s licenses are invalidated (Kansas Reflector)
Two anti-trans ballot measures will appear on 2026 Colorado ballot (Colorado Newsline)
With a new support crew, trans Utahns fight a range of bills in the Legislature (Utah News Dispatch)
Mainers to vote on whether to end transgender inclusion in school sports (Maine Morning Star)


Got questions? An episode idea? Email us at podcast@statesnewsroom.com


Photo: A group of trans activists pose for pictures on Feb. 6, 2026, at the Kansas Statehouse, advocating against a bathroom bill that eventually passed. (Photo by Sherman Smith/Kansas Reflector)

‘It’s dire’: A closer look at the new anti-trans law in Kansas

Executions in the United States have been <a href="https://deathpenaltyinfo.org/news/mid-year-review-2025-new-death-sentences-remain-low-amidst-increase-in-executions">on the </a><a href="http://decline.in">decline </a>over the past few decades, yet 27 states still enforce the death penalty – and many are imposing it more often. One very recent case in Alabama illustrates the complicated and emotional debates unfolding around the death penalty. In 2025, Alabama executed five people, and the state was set for its first execution of 2026 this month. Charles “Sonny” Burton, 75, had been convicted of felony capital murder in 1992, even though he didn’t pull the trigger, and was scheduled to die March 12. However, Burton’s fate quickly changed this week when Alabama Gov. Kay Ivey commuted Burton’s death sentence to life in prison. Alabama Reflector senior reporter Ralph Chapoco will have the latest. This episode also examines a death penalty abolition movement in Indiana as well as developments in Arizona and Utah. In Episode 19, host Chris Fitzsimon catches listeners up on breaking news in Alabama, where the governor this week commuted the death sentence of a prisoner to life in prison. He’ll also talk with Kim Dillman, an opponent of the death penalty whose family history may make her position surprising. In 1994, her uncle <a href="https://www.indystar.com/story/news/crime/2019/12/11/matthew-eric-wrinkles-last-inmate-executed-indiana/2617253001/">Eric Wrinkles</a> shot and killed her parents, Tony and Natalie, and her aunt Debbie, in a brutal mass murder in Evansville, Indiana. Kim and her brother and cousins were in the house where the murder occurred. Wrinkles was convicted and sentenced to death for the murders. He was executed by lethal injection in 2009. Since Wrinkles’ conviction and execution, Dillard has become a vocal opponent of the death penalty. She is involved with the Indiana Abolition Coalition, which advocates to end the practice. Finally, <a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/newsletter/evening-wrap">Evening Wrap</a> newsletter author Danielle Gaines shares the top stories she’s watching.Episode produced and edited by Mallory Cheng. Music for Stories From The States composed by <a href="https://www.davidsingerfilm.com/">David Singer</a>.Click <a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/episode/americas-complicated-relationship-death-penalty">here</a> for the full transcript.Relevant reading from States Newsroom outlets and partners: <ul>
<li>
<a href="https://alabamareflector.com/2026/03/10/gov-kay-ivey-commutes-death-sentence-of-charles-sonny-burton/">Gov. Kay Ivey commutes death sentence of Charles ‘Sonny’ Burton</a> (Alabama Reflector)</li>
<li>
<a href="https://indianacapitalchronicle.com/2026/02/24/new-records-show-additional-indiana-dollars-paid-for-last-round-of-execution-drugs/">New records show additional Indiana dollars paid for last round of execution drugs</a> (Indiana Capital Chronicle)</li>
<li>
<a href="https://utahnewsdispatch.com/2026/03/04/utah-bill-to-speed-up-timeline-on-death-penalty-moves-forward/">Utah bill to speed up timeline on death penalty cases moves forward</a> (Utah News Dispatch)</li>
<li>
<a href="https://azmirror.com/2026/02/18/arizona-could-ask-voters-to-allow-firing-squad-executions-under-gop-proposal/">Arizona could ask voters to allow firing squad executions under GOP proposal</a> (Arizona Mirror)
</li>
</ul> Photo: The chair used for firing squad executions is shown in the execution chamber at the Utah State Correctional Facility. (Photo courtesy of the Utah State Department of Corrections)

Executions in the United States have been on the decline over the past few decades, yet 27 states still enforce the death penalty – and many are imposing it more often. 
One very recent case in Alabama illustrates the complicated and emotional debates unfolding around the death penalty. 
In 2025, Alabama executed five people, and the state was set for its first execution of 2026 this month. Charles “Sonny” Burton, 75, had been convicted of felony capital murder in 1992, even though he didn’t pull the trigger, and was scheduled to die March 12. 
However, Burton’s fate quickly changed this week when Alabama Gov. Kay Ivey commuted Burton’s death sentence to life in prison. Alabama Reflector senior reporter Ralph Chapoco will have the latest. 
This episode also examines a death penalty abolition movement in Indiana as well as developments in Arizona and Utah. 
In Episode 19, host Chris Fitzsimon catches listeners up on breaking news in Alabama, where the governor this week commuted the death sentence of a prisoner to life in prison. 
He’ll also talk with Kim Dillman, an opponent of the death penalty whose family history may make her position surprising. In 1994, her uncle Eric Wrinkles shot and killed her parents, Tony and Natalie, and her aunt Debbie, in a brutal mass murder in Evansville, Indiana. 
Kim and her brother and cousins were in the house where the murder occurred. Wrinkles was convicted and sentenced to death for the murders. He was executed by lethal injection in 2009. 
Since Wrinkles’ conviction and execution, Dillard has become a vocal opponent of the death penalty. She is involved with the Indiana Abolition Coalition, which advocates to end the practice. 
Finally, Evening Wrap newsletter author Danielle Gaines shares the top stories she’s watching.
Episode produced and edited by Mallory Cheng. Music for Stories From The States composed by David Singer.
Click here for the full transcript.
Relevant reading from States Newsroom outlets and partners: 


Gov. Kay Ivey commutes death sentence of Charles ‘Sonny’ Burton (Alabama Reflector)
New records show additional Indiana dollars paid for last round of execution drugs (Indiana Capital Chronicle)
Utah bill to speed up timeline on death penalty cases moves forward (Utah News Dispatch)
Arizona could ask voters to allow firing squad executions under GOP proposal (Arizona Mirror)



Photo: The chair used for firing squad executions is shown in the execution chamber at the Utah State Correctional Facility. (Photo courtesy of the Utah State Department of Corrections)

America’s complicated relationship with the death penalty

Since the 2022 Dobbs decision by the U.S. Supreme Court, state governments decide how they’ll regulate abortion. This includes which organizations receive reproductive health funding.  Crisis pregnancy centers, religiously affiliated organizations that advertise free pregnancy tests and ultrasounds but dissuade women from pursuing abortions, are seeing an influx of taxpayer dollars. At the same time, officials are pulling funding from Planned Parenthood and other health clinics across the country. States Newsroom conducted <a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/taxpayer-dollars-flood-pregnancy-centers-oversight-hasnt-followed">a 50-state investigation</a> examining state and federal budgets, as well as the tax records of hundreds of crisis pregnancy centers around the country.  In Episode 18, you’ll hear from States Newsroom reproductive rights reporter <a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/author/sofia-resnick">Sofia Resnick</a>, who will break down how this is playing out and how public money is being spent.  You’ll also hear from <a href="https://www.facebook.com/drkristinlyerly/">Dr. Kristin Lyerly</a>, an OB-GYN based in Sheboygan, Wisconsin. Since 2013, Lyerly has worked in rural Minnesota, Arizona and a Wisconsin Planned Parenthood clinic. She’ll share her firsthand experiences at the center of the fight over abortion access. Finally, <a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/newsletter/evening-wrap">Evening Wrap</a> newsletter author Danielle Gaines shares the top stories she’s watching. Episode produced and edited by Mallory Cheng. Music for Stories From The States composed by <a href="https://www.davidsingerfilm.com/">David Singer</a>.  Click <a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/episode/billion-dollar-baby-bump">here</a> for the full transcript. Relevant reading from States Newsroom outlets and partners: <ul>
<li>
<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/taxpayer-dollars-flood-pregnancy-centers-oversight-hasnt-followed">Taxpayer dollars flood pregnancy centers. Oversight hasn't followed.</a> (States Newsroom)</li>
<li>
<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/arguing-abortion-procedure-unlawfully-barbaric-worked-once-will-it-work-again">Arguing an abortion procedure is unlawfully barbaric worked once. Will it work again?</a> (States Newsroom)</li>
<li>
<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2026/02/20/missouri-republicans-push-penalties-fetal-personhood-bills-abortion-fight/">‘We’re not done’: Missouri GOP pushes penalties, fetal personhood in renewed abortion fight</a> (Missouri Independent)</li>
<li>
<a href="https://ohiocapitaljournal.com/2026/03/04/appeals-court-strikes-down-ohio-law-requiring-burial-of-abortion-remains/">Appeals court strikes down Ohio law requiring burial of abortion remains</a> (Ohio Capital Journal)</li>
</ul> Got questions? An episode idea? Email us at <a href="mailto:podcasts@statesnewsroom.com">podcast@statesnewsroom.com</a> Photo: Crisis pregnancy centers have been the beneficiary of at least a half-billion dollars since the U.S. Supreme Court ended federal abortion protections in June 2022, a States Newsroom investigation found. The centers discourage women from seeking abortion and contraception, which medical experts say compromises public health. (Illustration by David Jack Browning for States Newsroom)

Since the 2022 Dobbs decision by the U.S. Supreme Court, state governments decide how they’ll regulate abortion. This includes which organizations receive reproductive health funding. 


Crisis pregnancy centers, religiously affiliated organizations that advertise free pregnancy tests and ultrasounds but dissuade women from pursuing abortions, are seeing an influx of taxpayer dollars. At the same time, officials are pulling funding from Planned Parenthood and other health clinics across the country.


States Newsroom conducted a 50-state investigation examining state and federal budgets, as well as the tax records of hundreds of crisis pregnancy centers around the country. 


In Episode 18, you’ll hear from States Newsroom reproductive rights reporter Sofia Resnick, who will break down how this is playing out and how public money is being spent. 


You’ll also hear from Dr. Kristin Lyerly, an OB-GYN based in Sheboygan, Wisconsin. Since 2013, Lyerly has worked in rural Minnesota, Arizona and a Wisconsin Planned Parenthood clinic. She’ll share her firsthand experiences at the center of the fight over abortion access.


Finally, Evening Wrap newsletter author Danielle Gaines shares the top stories she’s watching.


Episode produced and edited by Mallory Cheng. Music for Stories From The States composed by David Singer. 


Click here for the full transcript.


Relevant reading from States Newsroom outlets and partners: 


Taxpayer dollars flood pregnancy centers. Oversight hasn't followed. (States Newsroom)
Arguing an abortion procedure is unlawfully barbaric worked once. Will it work again? (States Newsroom)
‘We’re not done’: Missouri GOP pushes penalties, fetal personhood in renewed abortion fight (Missouri Independent)
Appeals court strikes down Ohio law requiring burial of abortion remains (Ohio Capital Journal)


Got questions? An episode idea? Email us at podcast@statesnewsroom.com


Photo: Crisis pregnancy centers have been the beneficiary of at least a half-billion dollars since the U.S. Supreme Court ended federal abortion protections in June 2022, a States Newsroom investigation found. The centers discourage women from seeking abortion and contraception, which medical experts say compromises public health. (Illustration by David Jack Browning for States Newsroom)

Billion Dollar Baby Bump

For years, voucher and scholarship programs that used taxpayer dollars for private school tuition were limited to low-income or special needs students. Now, states like Arizona, Iowa and Texas have universal programs that allow any student to use public money for private school tuition. By the 2026-2027 school year, at least 17 states are expected to have that policy. There’s been a significant shift in the conversation about school choice in state legislation. Advocates say it gives parents options. Critics argue there’s not enough oversight over public dollars that <a href="https://www.washingtonpost.com/politics/2025/12/05/jeff-yass-school-choice-trump/">billionaires are lobbying for</a>.In Episode 17, you’ll hear about the culture shift on school choice. Joining us will be <a href="https://education.msu.edu/people/c/cowen-joshua">Joshua Cowen</a>, a professor of education policy at Michigan State University who wrote <a href="https://hep.gse.harvard.edu/9781682539101/the-privateers/">“The Privateers: How Billionaires Created a Culture War and Sold School Vouchers.”</a> And we’ll look at South Carolina, where legislators are dealing with some unintended consequences of a school voucher law they wrote in 2025. They’re now debating whether homeschooled students should be included in the voucher system. <a href="https://scdailygazette.com/">South Carolina Daily Gazette</a> reporter <a href="https://scdailygazette.com/author/skylar-laird/">Skylar Laird</a>, who has been covering this, will discuss her reporting.Finally, <a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/newsletter/evening-wrap">Evening Wrap</a> newsletter author Danielle Gaines shares the top stories she’s watching.Episode produced and edited by Mallory Cheng. Music for Stories From The States composed by <a href="https://www.davidsingerfilm.com/">David Singer</a>.Click <a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/episode/billionaires-and-private-school-vouchers">here</a> for the full transcript: Relevant reading from States Newsroom outlets and partners: <ul>
<li>
<a href="https://stateline.org/2026/02/23/school-choice-programs-grow-in-popularity-and-cost/?emci=f382f594-b210-f111-a69a-000d3a57593f&amp;emdi=93c2969f-c610-f111-a69a-000d3a57593f&amp;ceid=655747">School choice programs grow in popularity — and cost</a> (Stateline)</li>
<li>
<a href="https://azmirror.com/2026/02/11/arizona-voters-may-decide-future-of-universal-school-voucher-system/">Arizona voters may decide future of universal school voucher system</a> (Arizona Mirror)</li>
<li>
<a href="https://ohiocapitaljournal.com/2026/02/17/lawmaker-reverses-course-on-bill-to-restrict-money-for-ohio-school-districts-that-sue-over-vouchers/">Lawmaker reverses course on bill to restrict money for Ohio school districts that sue over vouchers</a> (Ohio Capital Journal)</li>
<li>
<a href="https://scdailygazette.com/2026/02/19/a-real-trust-problem-senators-question-sc-superintendents-judgment-giving-homeschoolers-vouchers/">‘A real trust problem’: Senators question SC superintendent’s judgment giving homeschoolers vouchers</a> (SC Daily Gazette)</li>
<li>
<a href="https://www.propublica.org/article/arizona-school-vouchers-budget-meltdown">School Vouchers Were Supposed to Save Taxpayer Money. Instead They Blew a Massive Hole in Arizona’s Budget.</a> (ProPublica)</li>
</ul>Photo: A sign held by a teacher at a rally at the Arizona Capitol on June 5, 2024, to advocate for restrictions on the state’s school voucher system, known as Empowerment Scholarship Accounts. (Photo by Jerod MacDonald-Evoy/Arizona Mirror)

For years, voucher and scholarship programs that used taxpayer dollars for private school tuition were limited to low-income or special needs students. 
Now, states like Arizona, Iowa and Texas have universal programs that allow any student to use public money for private school tuition. By the 2026-2027 school year, at least 17 states are expected to have that policy. 
There’s been a significant shift in the conversation about school choice in state legislation. Advocates say it gives parents options. Critics argue there’s not enough oversight over public dollars that billionaires are lobbying for.
In Episode 17, you’ll hear about the culture shift on school choice. Joining us will be Joshua Cowen, a professor of education policy at Michigan State University who wrote “The Privateers: How Billionaires Created a Culture War and Sold School Vouchers.” 
And we’ll look at South Carolina, where legislators are dealing with some unintended consequences of a school voucher law they wrote in 2025. They’re now debating whether homeschooled students should be included in the voucher system. 
South Carolina Daily Gazette reporter Skylar Laird, who has been covering this, will discuss her reporting.
Finally, Evening Wrap newsletter author Danielle Gaines shares the top stories she’s watching.
Episode produced and edited by Mallory Cheng. Music for Stories From The States composed by David Singer.
Click here for the full transcript: 
Relevant reading from States Newsroom outlets and partners: 


School choice programs grow in popularity — and cost (Stateline)
Arizona voters may decide future of universal school voucher system (Arizona Mirror)
Lawmaker reverses course on bill to restrict money for Ohio school districts that sue over vouchers (Ohio Capital Journal)
‘A real trust problem’: Senators question SC superintendent’s judgment giving homeschoolers vouchers (SC Daily Gazette)
School Vouchers Were Supposed to Save Taxpayer Money. Instead They Blew a Massive Hole in Arizona’s Budget. (ProPublica)
Photo: A sign held by a teacher at a rally at the Arizona Capitol on June 5, 2024, to advocate for restrictions on the state’s school voucher system, known as Empowerment Scholarship Accounts. (Photo by Jerod MacDonald-Evoy/Arizona Mirror)

Billionaires and private school vouchers

Since President Donald Trump’s return to office, elections have been a priority for his administration.  The FBI raid of an election warehouse in Fulton County, Georgia, seizing 2020 ballots. The Department of Justice demanding voter registration lists and other information from all states. Mail-in ballots at risk of not being postmarked. Trump’s threat of a federal takeover of state elections. Trump has continued to push false claims that the 2020 election was stolen. The DOJ sued 21 states plus the District of Columbia in an attempt to gain access to state voter rolls. But in Georgia and across the states, election officials and lawyers are trying to prevent the Trump administration from succeeding. In Episode 16, you’ll hear from <a href="https://www.fultoncountyga.gov/Commissioners/Robb-Pitts">Fulton County Commissioner Rob Pitts</a>. He sued the DOJ to get the county’s election records back and to find out why they were taken.  You’ll hear from<a href="https://elias.law/bio/elisabeth-frost/"> Elisabeth Frost</a>, the Litigation Chair at<a href="https://elias.law/"> Elias Law Group</a>, who has been leading the effort to push back against lawsuits filed by the DOJ to access states’ sensitive voter data. And<a href="https://stateline.org/"> Stateline</a> reporter<a href="https://stateline.org/author/jshorman/"> Jonathan Shorman</a>, who covers democracy, will fill us in on potential problems with mail-in voting and how those ballots will be counted. Finally, <a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/newsletter/evening-wrap">Evening Wrap</a> newsletter author Danielle Gaines shares the top stories she’s watching.Episode produced and edited by Mallory Cheng. Music for Stories From The States composed by <a href="https://www.davidsingerfilm.com/">David Singer</a>.  Click <a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/episode/trump-targets-elections-states-fight-back-court">here</a> for the full transcript:  Relevant reading from States Newsroom outlets and partners: <ul>
<li>
<a href="https://georgiarecorder.com/2026/02/11/lawmakers-praise-rebuke-affidavit-used-to-justify-fulton-county-election-raid/">Lawmakers praise, rebuke affidavit used to justify Fulton County election raid</a> (Georgia Recorder)</li>
<li>
<a href="https://sourcenm.com/briefs/nm-house-passes-passes-law-shielding-elections-from-federal-interference/">NM House passes law shielding elections from federal interference</a> (Source NM)
</li>
<li>
<a href="https://michiganadvance.com/briefs/federal-judge-dismisses-trump-administration-attempt-to-access-michigan-voter-rolls/">Federal judge dismisses Trump administration attempt to access Michigan voter rolls</a> (Michigan Advance)</li>
<li>
<a href="https://newhampshirebulletin.com/2025/10/02/bipartisan-group-of-new-hampshire-residents-challenge-trump-voter-file-request/">Bipartisan group of New Hampshire residents challenge Trump voter file request</a> (New Hampshire Bulletin)</li>
<li>
<a href="https://stateline.org/2025/12/09/voting-by-mail-faces-uncertain-moment-ahead-of-midterm-elections/">Voting by mail faces uncertain moment ahead of midterm elections</a> (Stateline)</li>
</ul> Photo: Fulton County Police officers stand by outside county election headquarters while FBI agents seize documents related to the 2020 election. (Ross Williams/Georgia Recorder)

Since President Donald Trump’s return to office, elections have been a priority for his administration. 


The FBI raid of an election warehouse in Fulton County, Georgia, seizing 2020 ballots. The Department of Justice demanding voter registration lists and other information from all states. Mail-in ballots at risk of not being postmarked. Trump’s threat of a federal takeover of state elections.


Trump has continued to push false claims that the 2020 election was stolen. The DOJ sued 21 states plus the District of Columbia in an attempt to gain access to state voter rolls.


But in Georgia and across the states, election officials and lawyers are trying to prevent the Trump administration from succeeding.


In Episode 16, you’ll hear from Fulton County Commissioner Rob Pitts. He sued the DOJ to get the county’s election records back and to find out why they were taken. 


You’ll hear from Elisabeth Frost, the Litigation Chair at Elias Law Group, who has been leading the effort to push back against lawsuits filed by the DOJ to access states’ sensitive voter data.


And Stateline reporter Jonathan Shorman, who covers democracy, will fill us in on potential problems with mail-in voting and how those ballots will be counted.


Finally, Evening Wrap newsletter author Danielle Gaines shares the top stories she’s watching.
Episode produced and edited by Mallory Cheng. Music for Stories From The States composed by David Singer. 


Click here for the full transcript: 


Relevant reading from States Newsroom outlets and partners: 


Lawmakers praise, rebuke affidavit used to justify Fulton County election raid (Georgia Recorder)
NM House passes law shielding elections from federal interference (Source NM)


Federal judge dismisses Trump administration attempt to access Michigan voter rolls (Michigan Advance)
Bipartisan group of New Hampshire residents challenge Trump voter file request (New Hampshire Bulletin)
Voting by mail faces uncertain moment ahead of midterm elections (Stateline)


Photo: Fulton County Police officers stand by outside county election headquarters while FBI agents seize documents related to the 2020 election. (Ross Williams/Georgia Recorder)

As Trump targets elections, states fight back in court

President Donald Trump is still pushing Republican-led states to redistrict their congressional maps to help the GOP maintain control of the House of Representatives after the 2026 midterm elections.It led to an unusual burst of mid-decade redistricting in some states, such as Texas and North Carolina that have passed new maps increasing a GOP advantage.Democratic-led states California and Virginia are pushing for redraws of their congressional maps to counter them.Meanwhile, Maryland state legislators are at an impasse on whether to change their maps, after a House-approved redistricting plan got stalled in the Senate. In Episode 15, <a href="https://marylandmatters.org/">Maryland Matters</a> reporter <a href="https://marylandmatters.org/author/bryan-sears/">Bryan Sears</a> will break down on what’s going on in Annapolis. Over in Alabama, they’ve enacted new state Senate maps drawn by an unexpected mapmaker — a college freshman.You’ll meet Daniel DiDonato, a student at the University of Alabama and a cartographer. Finally, <a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/newsletter/evening-wrap">Evening Wrap</a> newsletter author Danielle Gaines shares the top stories she’s watching.Episode produced and edited by Mallory Cheng. Music for Stories From The States composed by <a href="https://www.davidsingerfilm.com/">David Singer</a>. Click <a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/episode/behind-lines-how-mid-decade-redistricting-playing-out">here</a> for the full transcript: Relevant reading from States Newsroom outlets and partners: <ul>
<li>
<a href="https://utahnewsdispatch.com/2026/02/10/utah-redistricting-federal-court-anti-gerrymandering-plaintiffs/">Utah’s redistricting fight heads to federal court; anti-gerrymandering plaintiffs ask to intervene</a> (Utah Dispatch)</li>
<li>
<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2026/02/10/judge-to-decide-whether-missouris-gerrymandered-congressional-map-is-in-effect/">Judge to decide whether Missouri’s gerrymandered congressional map is in effect</a> (Missouri Independent) </li>
<li>
<a href="https://alabamareflector.com/2025/11/21/alabamas-court-ordered-senate-map-was-drawn-by-a-ua-freshman/">University of Alabama freshman draws state’s court-ordered Senate map </a>(Alabama Reflector)</li>
<li>
<a href="https://marylandmatters.org/2026/02/03/redistricting-bill-sails-through-house-faces-troubled-waters-in-the-senate/">Redistricting bill sails through House, faces troubled waters in the Senate</a> (Maryland Matters)</li>
<li>
<a href="https://virginiamercury.com/2026/02/05/virginia-democrats-release-long-awaited-10-1-congressional-map/">Virginia Democrats release long-awaited 10–1 congressional map</a> (Virginia Mercury)</li>
</ul> Got questions? An episode idea? Email us at <a href="mailto:podcasts@statesnewsroom.com">podcast@statesnewsroom.com</a> Photo: Daniel DiDonato, an 18-year-old student at the University of Alabama, working on a state Senate district map in a common study area in Martha Parham Hall in Tuscaloosa, Alabama. DiDonato created the map that a federal judge ordered to be implemented for Alabama's 2026 and 2030 elections after ruling that the Montgomery-area districts violated Section 2 of the Voting Rights Act. (Anna Barrett/Alabama Reflector)

President Donald Trump is still pushing Republican-led states to redistrict their congressional maps to help the GOP maintain control of the House of Representatives after the 2026 midterm elections.
It led to an unusual burst of mid-decade redistricting in some states, such as Texas and North Carolina that have passed new maps increasing a GOP advantage.
Democratic-led states California and Virginia are pushing for redraws of their congressional maps to counter them.
Meanwhile, Maryland state legislators are at an impasse on whether to change their maps, after a House-approved redistricting plan got stalled in the Senate. 
In Episode 15, Maryland Matters reporter Bryan Sears will break down on what’s going on in Annapolis. 
Over in Alabama, they’ve enacted new state Senate maps drawn by an unexpected mapmaker — a college freshman.
You’ll meet Daniel DiDonato, a student at the University of Alabama and a cartographer. 
Finally, Evening Wrap newsletter author Danielle Gaines shares the top stories she’s watching.
Episode produced and edited by Mallory Cheng. Music for Stories From The States composed by David Singer. 
Click here for the full transcript: 
Relevant reading from States Newsroom outlets and partners: 


Utah’s redistricting fight heads to federal court; anti-gerrymandering plaintiffs ask to intervene (Utah Dispatch)
Judge to decide whether Missouri’s gerrymandered congressional map is in effect (Missouri Independent) 
University of Alabama freshman draws state’s court-ordered Senate map (Alabama Reflector)
Redistricting bill sails through House, faces troubled waters in the Senate (Maryland Matters)
Virginia Democrats release long-awaited 10–1 congressional map (Virginia Mercury)


Got questions? An episode idea? Email us at podcast@statesnewsroom.com


Photo: Daniel DiDonato, an 18-year-old student at the University of Alabama, working on a state Senate district map in a common study area in Martha Parham Hall in Tuscaloosa, Alabama. DiDonato created the map that a federal judge ordered to be implemented for Alabama's 2026 and 2030 elections after ruling that the Montgomery-area districts violated Section 2 of the Voting Rights Act. (Anna Barrett/Alabama Reflector)

Behind the lines: How mid-decade redistricting is playing out

For years, private prison companies have been a key partner to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement as the government carried out its immigration agenda. In 2025, they’ve been rapidly expanding, though they’re also facing pushback in several states. CoreCivic is one of the biggest private prison companies in the United States, whose <a href="https://tennesseelookout.com/2025/11/06/private-prison-operator-corecivic-saw-55-increase-in-immigration-detainee-contracts/">pockets have gotten substantially deeper</a> after President Donald Trump was reelected into office. With larger projected revenue, CoreCivic is expanding its operations. One place they’ve been eyeing is in Leavenworth, Kansas, where they’d like to reopen the Leavenworth Detention Center, which was closed in 2021. They’re meeting fierce opposition, though, as many former CoreCivic corrections officers and community members are speaking out against it.In Episode 14, you’ll hear from William Rogers. He is a former employee of CoreCivic and has become a grassroots advocate speaking out against the Leavenworth Detention Center reopening. The company is also facing hundreds of lawsuits that accuse the company of failing to keep detainees safe.Meanwhile, CoreCivic is facing hundreds of lawsuits across the country that accuse the company of failing to keep detainees safe. Most notably, Tennessee's largest state prison run by CoreCivic is drawing scrutiny from state officials who are questioning how the company handled a June 2025 riot at its Trousdale Turner Correctional Center.<a href="https://tennesseelookout.com/">Tennessee Lookout</a> reporter <a href="https://tennesseelookout.com/author/sam-stockard/">Sam Stockard</a> will help explain how entrenched CoreCivic is in the Volunteer State.Finally, <a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/newsletter/evening-wrap">Evening Wrap</a> newsletter author Danielle Gaines shares the top stories she’s watching.Episode produced and edited by Mallory Cheng. Music for Stories From The States composed by <a href="https://www.davidsingerfilm.com/">David Singer</a>.Click <a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/episode/looking-one-ices-biggest-contractors-corecivic">here</a> for the full transcript: Relevant reading from States Newsroom outlets and partners: <ul>
<li>
<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2026/02/03/corecivic-receives-leavenworth-planning-commission-approval-in-contentious-meeting/">CoreCivic receives Leavenworth planning commission approval in contentious meeting</a> (Kansas Reflector)</li>
<li>
<a href="https://tennesseelookout.com/2025/11/06/private-prison-operator-corecivic-saw-55-increase-in-immigration-detainee-contracts/">Private prison operator CoreCivic saw 55% increase in immigration detainee contracts</a> (Tennessee Lookout)</li>
<li>
<a href="https://virginiamercury.com/2026/01/29/not-the-right-location-hanover-supervisors-residents-oppose-dhs-ice-facility/">‘Not the right location:’ Hanover supervisors, residents oppose DHS ICE facility</a> (Virginia Mercury)</li>
<li>
<a href="https://stateline.org/2025/04/11/for-profit-immigration-detention-expands-as-trump-accelerates-his-deportation-plans/">For-profit immigration detention expands as Trump accelerates his deportation plans</a> (Stateline)</li>
</ul>Photo: William Rogers speaks about his experience at the facility. Rogers wore a graphic shirt with images of injuries sustained by corrections officers while employed by CoreCivic. (Natasha Torkzaban for Kansas Reflector)

For years, private prison companies have been a key partner to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement as the government carried out its immigration agenda. In 2025, they’ve been rapidly expanding, though they’re also facing pushback in several states. 
CoreCivic is one of the biggest private prison companies in the United States, whose pockets have gotten substantially deeper after President Donald Trump was reelected into office. 
With larger projected revenue, CoreCivic is expanding its operations. 
One place they’ve been eyeing is in Leavenworth, Kansas, where they’d like to reopen the Leavenworth Detention Center, which was closed in 2021. 
They’re meeting fierce opposition, though, as many former CoreCivic corrections officers and community members are speaking out against it.
In Episode 14, you’ll hear from William Rogers. He is a former employee of CoreCivic and has become a grassroots advocate speaking out against the Leavenworth Detention Center reopening. 
The company is also facing hundreds of lawsuits that accuse the company of failing to keep detainees safe.
Meanwhile, CoreCivic is facing hundreds of lawsuits across the country that accuse the company of failing to keep detainees safe. Most notably, Tennessee's largest state prison run by CoreCivic is drawing scrutiny from state officials who are questioning how the company handled a June 2025 riot at its Trousdale Turner Correctional Center.
Tennessee Lookout reporter Sam Stockard will help explain how entrenched CoreCivic is in the Volunteer State.
Finally, Evening Wrap newsletter author Danielle Gaines shares the top stories she’s watching.
Episode produced and edited by Mallory Cheng. Music for Stories From The States composed by David Singer.
Click here for the full transcript: 
Relevant reading from States Newsroom outlets and partners: 


CoreCivic receives Leavenworth planning commission approval in contentious meeting (Kansas Reflector)
Private prison operator CoreCivic saw 55% increase in immigration detainee contracts (Tennessee Lookout)
‘Not the right location:’ Hanover supervisors, residents oppose DHS ICE facility (Virginia Mercury)
For-profit immigration detention expands as Trump accelerates his deportation plans (Stateline)
Photo: William Rogers speaks about his experience at the facility. Rogers wore a graphic shirt with images of injuries sustained by corrections officers while employed by CoreCivic. (Natasha Torkzaban for Kansas Reflector)

Looking into one of ICE’s biggest contractors: CoreCivic

For decades, government funding was withheld from historically Black public colleges and universities, such as Tennessee State University. States across the South have grappled with the question: What could be possible if those debts were repaid?In Episode 13, we’ll hear from our colleagues at the Tennessee Lookout and WPLN News. Together, they produced <a href="https://tennesseelookout.com/2025/12/15/the-debt-almost-60-years-ago-a-court-case-at-tsu-transformed-tennessee-higher-education/">The Debt</a>, a reported project and podcast that traces Tennessee State University’s decades-long fight for fair funding. You’ll hear from journalists <a href="https://tennesseelookout.com/author/emily-siner/">Emily Siner</a> and <a href="https://nashvillepublicradio.org/staff-members/camellia-burris/">Camellia Burris</a>, whose reporting examined an overlooked Civil Rights lawsuit, a historic merger with a predominantly white university, a dramatic student hunger strike, and a lawmaker who discovered his father’s old research on underfunding. Episode produced and edited by Mallory Cheng. Music for Stories From The States composed by <a href="https://www.davidsingerfilm.com/">David Singer</a>. A special thank you to Tennessee Lookout and WPLN News. Relevant reading from States Newsroom outlets and partners:  <ul>
<li>
<a href="https://mississippitoday.org/2026/01/14/black-lawmakers-college-funding/">Black lawmakers warn constituents that proposed funding formula changes could hurt Mississippi’s HBCUs</a> (Mississippi Today)
</li>
<li>
<a href="https://tennesseelookout.com/2025/12/16/long-before-fights-over-dei-a-judge-told-tennessee-state-university-to-lose-its-black-identity/">Long before fights over DEI, a judge told Tennessee State University to lose its Black identity</a> (Tennessee Lookout)</li>
<li>
<a href="https://tennesseelookout.com/2025/12/17/how-rep-harold-love-secured-the-largest-ever-funding-boom-for-tsu-and-what-comes-next/">How Rep. Harold Love secured the largest-ever funding boom for TSU — and what comes next</a> (Tennessee Lookout)</li>
<li>
<a href="https://tennesseelookout.com/2025/12/18/how-much-has-tennessee-state-university-been-underfunded-here-are-4-calculations/">How much has Tennessee State University been underfunded? Here are 4 calculations</a> (Tennessee Lookout)</li>
</ul> Got questions? An episode idea? Email us at <a href="mailto:podcasts@statesnewsroom.com">podcast@statesnewsroom.com</a> Photo: Almost since its founding after Reconstruction, Tennessee State University has fought for funding. (Photo: John Partipilo/Tennessee Lookout)

For decades, government funding was withheld from historically Black public colleges and universities, such as Tennessee State University. 
States across the South have grappled with the question: What could be possible if those debts were repaid?
In Episode 13, we’ll hear from our colleagues at the Tennessee Lookout and WPLN News. 
Together, they produced The Debt, a reported project and podcast that traces Tennessee State University’s decades-long fight for fair funding. 
You’ll hear from journalists Emily Siner and Camellia Burris, whose reporting examined an overlooked Civil Rights lawsuit, a historic merger with a predominantly white university, a dramatic student hunger strike, and a lawmaker who discovered his father’s old research on underfunding. 
Episode produced and edited by Mallory Cheng. Music for Stories From The States composed by David Singer. A special thank you to Tennessee Lookout and WPLN News.


Relevant reading from States Newsroom outlets and partners: 


Black lawmakers warn constituents that proposed funding formula changes could hurt Mississippi’s HBCUs (Mississippi Today)


Long before fights over DEI, a judge told Tennessee State University to lose its Black identity (Tennessee Lookout)
How Rep. Harold Love secured the largest-ever funding boom for TSU — and what comes next (Tennessee Lookout)
How much has Tennessee State University been underfunded? Here are 4 calculations (Tennessee Lookout)


Got questions? An episode idea? Email us at podcast@statesnewsroom.com


Photo: Almost since its founding after Reconstruction, Tennessee State University has fought for funding. (Photo: John Partipilo/Tennessee Lookout)

The Debt: What Tennessee Owes Its HBCU

Diversity, equity and inclusion programs have faced constant attacks from the current Trump administration. Early in his second term, President Donald Trump signed several executive orders to terminate federal programs with any mention of DEI. This included the end of funding to some National Institutes of Health programs. Some states pushed back, and now the Trump administration has agreed to drop anti-DEI criteria for stalled health research grants.However, for one former Georgia professor, his state didn’t participate in this legal battle.In Episode 12, you’ll meet Géza Kogler. He most recently was a professor at Kennesaw State University, but was one of the many recipients who lost their NIH grant. His program aimed to train the next generation of orthotists and researchers who specialize in designing, constructing and fitting medical devices such as braces, splints and supportive footwear. Kogler believes that his NIH funding was terminated because it specifically supported researchers from underrepresented backgrounds. At the University of North Carolina System, they’ve been tackling to repeal the system’s policy on DEI in favor of “principled neutrality” since before Trump’s second term. You’ll hear from NC Newsline Deputy Editor Clayton Henkel on what is going on at the 17-campus system.Finally, <a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/newsletter/evening-wrap">Evening Wrap</a> newsletter author Danielle Gaines shares the top stories she’s watching.Episode produced and edited by Mallory Cheng. Music for Stories From The States composed by <a href="https://www.davidsingerfilm.com/">David Singer</a>. Click here for the full transcript: Relevant reading from States Newsroom outlets and partners: <ul>
<li>
<a href="https://ncnewsline.com/2026/01/08/unc-system-details-painstaking-process-to-root-out-diversity-equity-and-inclusion/">UNC System details painstaking process to root out diversity, equity and inclusion</a> (NC Newsline)</li>
<li>
<a href="https://georgiarecorder.com/2025/09/16/nih-grant-cuts-throw-science-into-a-downward-spiral-researchers-and-advocates-say/">NIH grant cuts throw science into a ‘downward spiral,’ researchers and advocates say</a> (Georgia Recorder)</li>
<li>
<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/trump-administration-agrees-drop-anti-dei-criteria-stalled-health-research-grants">Trump administration agrees to drop anti-DEI criteria for stalled health research grants</a> (States Newsroom D.C. Bureau)</li>
<li>
<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/12/17/kansas-efficiency-committee-targets-dei-curricula-in-college-classrooms/">Kansas efficiency committee targets DEI curricula in college classrooms</a> (Kansas Reflector)</li>
<li>
<a href="https://arkansasadvocate.com/2026/01/16/university-of-arkansas-abruptly-withdrew-incoming-law-deans-offer-heres-what-happened/">University of Arkansas abruptly withdrew incoming law dean’s offer. Here’s what happened.</a> (Arkansas Advocate)</li>
</ul> Got questions? An episode idea? Email us at <a href="mailto:podcasts@statesnewsroom.com">podcast@statesnewsroom.com</a> Photo: A photo of a building at University of North Carolina's Chapel Hill campus. (Photo: Clayton Henkel/NC Newsline)

Diversity, equity and inclusion programs have faced constant attacks from the current Trump administration. 
Early in his second term, President Donald Trump signed several executive orders to terminate federal programs with any mention of DEI. This included the end of funding to some National Institutes of Health programs. 
Some states pushed back, and now the Trump administration has agreed to drop anti-DEI criteria for stalled health research grants.
However, for one former Georgia professor, his state didn’t participate in this legal battle.
In Episode 12, you’ll meet Géza Kogler. He most recently was a professor at Kennesaw State University, but was one of the many recipients who lost their NIH grant. 
His program aimed to train the next generation of orthotists and researchers who specialize in designing, constructing and fitting medical devices such as braces, splints and supportive footwear. 
Kogler believes that his NIH funding was terminated because it specifically supported researchers from underrepresented backgrounds. 
At the University of North Carolina System, they’ve been tackling to repeal the system’s policy on DEI in favor of “principled neutrality” since before Trump’s second term. 
You’ll hear from NC Newsline Deputy Editor Clayton Henkel on what is going on at the 17-campus system.
Finally, Evening Wrap newsletter author Danielle Gaines shares the top stories she’s watching.
Episode produced and edited by Mallory Cheng. Music for Stories From The States composed by David Singer. 
Click here for the full transcript: 
Relevant reading from States Newsroom outlets and partners: 


UNC System details painstaking process to root out diversity, equity and inclusion (NC Newsline)
NIH grant cuts throw science into a ‘downward spiral,’ researchers and advocates say (Georgia Recorder)
Trump administration agrees to drop anti-DEI criteria for stalled health research grants (States Newsroom D.C. Bureau)
Kansas efficiency committee targets DEI curricula in college classrooms (Kansas Reflector)
University of Arkansas abruptly withdrew incoming law dean’s offer. Here’s what happened. (Arkansas Advocate)


Got questions? An episode idea? Email us at podcast@statesnewsroom.com


Photo: A photo of a building at University of North Carolina's Chapel Hill campus. (Photo: Clayton Henkel/NC Newsline)

Continued DEI pushback at colleges and universities

In the days since Jan. 7, when <a href="https://minnesotareformer.com/2026/01/07/ice-officer-fatally-shoots-driver-through-car-window-in-minneapolis/">Renee Nicole Good</a> was killed by ICE agent Jonathan Ross in Minneapolis, the public is getting a closer look at how many communities are resisting the Trump administration’s immigration crackdown. Volunteer rapid-response teams and loosely organized patrols in Minneapolis and other cities are tracking and following federal immigration agents to disrupt operations and alert neighbors.The work has become increasingly risky as tensions soar and confrontations between federal agents and volunteers escalate. Yet even after Good’s death, volunteers continue to mobilize in targeted neighborhoods. In Minneapolis, a Minnesota Reformer reporter rode along on a recent patrol and spoke with several volunteers determined to keep up their work.  In Episode 11, you’ll also meet Carlos Ochoa. He is a volunteer for <a href="https://www.instagram.com/vecindarios901/?hl=en">Vecindarios 901</a>, a rapid response network reporting on Immigration and Customs Enforcement activities.They were established during the first Trump term. Now in Trump’s second term, Vecindarios 901 has kicked into high gear to document the activities of the Memphis Safe Task Force. The multi-agency law enforcement force launched September 15, 2025 by President Donald Trump.Then, you’ll hear from <a href="https://minnesotareformer.com/">Minnesota Reformer</a> reporter <a href="https://minnesotareformer.com/author/madisonmcvan/">Madison McVan</a> who has been reporting on the ground in Minneapolis. Finally, <a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/newsletter/evening-wrap">Evening Wrap</a> newsletter author Danielle Gaines shares the top stories she’s watching.Episode produced and edited by Mallory Cheng. Music for Stories From The States composed by <a href="https://www.davidsingerfilm.com/">David Singer</a>. Click <a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/episode/keeping-ice-check-how-memphis-and-minneapolis-are-doing-it">here</a> for the full transcript.Relevant reading from States Newsroom outlets and partners: <ul>
<li>
<a href="https://minnesotareformer.com/2026/01/13/in-the-car-with-minneapolis-community-patrols/">In the car with the Minneapolis community patrols working to disrupt ICE operations</a> (Minnesota Reformer)</li>
<li>
<a href="https://minnesotareformer.com/2026/01/16/these-are-the-arrests-youre-not-seeing/">These are the arrests you’re not seeing</a> (Minnesota Reformer)</li>
<li>
<a href="https://tennesseelookout.com/2025/12/03/in-memphis-volunteers-document-task-force-arrests-and-provide-aid-to-those-left-behind/">In Memphis, volunteers document Task Force arrests and provide aid to those left behind</a> (Tennessee Lookout)</li>
<li>
<a href="https://www.propublica.org/article/videos-ice-dhs-immigration-agents-using-chokeholds-citizens">We Found More Than 40 Cases of Immigration Agents Using Banned Chokeholds and Other Moves That Can Cut Off Breathing</a> (ProPublica)</li>
</ul>Subscribe to Stories From the States on <a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/stories-from-the-states/id1847663106">Apple Podcasts</a>, <a href="https://open.spotify.com/show/2TfHKVIvoHKZVTGN3DL2WM">Spotify</a> and <a href="https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL72cugzwBvh94gElF228ZiklLWVK2gxuJ">Youtube</a>.Photo: A masked ICE agent knocks on the window and tells observers in Minnesota to stop following ICE vehicles while on an early morning watch Monday, Jan. 12, 2026. (Photo by Nicole Neri/Minnesota Reformer)

In the days since Jan. 7, when Renee Nicole Good was killed by ICE agent Jonathan Ross in Minneapolis, the public is getting a closer look at how many communities are resisting the Trump administration’s immigration crackdown. 
Volunteer rapid-response teams and loosely organized patrols in Minneapolis and other cities are tracking and following federal immigration agents to disrupt operations and alert neighbors.
The work has become increasingly risky as tensions soar and confrontations between federal agents and volunteers escalate. Yet even after Good’s death, volunteers continue to mobilize in targeted neighborhoods. 
In Minneapolis, a Minnesota Reformer reporter rode along on a recent patrol and spoke with several volunteers determined to keep up their work.  
In Episode 11, you’ll also meet Carlos Ochoa. He is a volunteer for Vecindarios 901, a rapid response network reporting on Immigration and Customs Enforcement activities.
They were established during the first Trump term. Now in Trump’s second term, Vecindarios 901 has kicked into high gear to document the activities of the Memphis Safe Task Force. The multi-agency law enforcement force launched September 15, 2025 by President Donald Trump.
Then, you’ll hear from Minnesota Reformer reporter Madison McVan who has been reporting on the ground in Minneapolis. 
Finally, Evening Wrap newsletter author Danielle Gaines shares the top stories she’s watching.
Episode produced and edited by Mallory Cheng. Music for Stories From The States composed by David Singer. 
Click here for the full transcript.
Relevant reading from States Newsroom outlets and partners: 


In the car with the Minneapolis community patrols working to disrupt ICE operations (Minnesota Reformer)
These are the arrests you’re not seeing (Minnesota Reformer)
In Memphis, volunteers document Task Force arrests and provide aid to those left behind (Tennessee Lookout)
We Found More Than 40 Cases of Immigration Agents Using Banned Chokeholds and Other Moves That Can Cut Off Breathing (ProPublica)
Subscribe to Stories From the States on Apple Podcasts, Spotify and Youtube.
Photo: A masked ICE agent knocks on the window and tells observers in Minnesota to stop following ICE vehicles while on an early morning watch Monday, Jan. 12, 2026. (Photo by Nicole Neri/Minnesota Reformer)

Keeping ICE in check, how Memphis and Minneapolis are doing it

With the rise of AI development, tech companies are investing billions to build massive data centers. Virginia is home to over <a href="https://www.pewresearch.org/short-reads/2025/10/24/what-we-know-about-energy-use-at-us-data-centers-amid-the-ai-boom/#how-many-data-centers-are-in-the-u-s-and-where-are-they">500 data centers and counting</a>. State officials there say their construction will boost local economies and create long-term jobs. One former data center technician in South Carolina doesn’t agree.And anxious residents are pushing back against the projects worried they could harm drinking water, spike electricity rates and bring noise pollution.  In Episode 10, you’ll meet Shannon Wait. She was a temporary worker at one of Google’s data centers in Berkeley County, South Carolina. While there, Wait spoke out against the unfair labor practices, but was suspended. She filed a case with the National Labor Relations Board, <a href="https://www.bbc.com/news/technology-56659212">and won</a>.  Now she’s a senior organizer at Alphabet Workers Union-CWA and a data policy advisor at TechEquity speaking out against the working conditions inside the facilities.Northern Virginia has especially been seeing a boom in construction, but as more buildings are planned for Southern Virginia, residents are growing concerned about how this will hurt their water and wallets. There aren't any statewide data center regulations, so localities are putting their foot down.  You’ll hear from the <a href="https://virginiamercury.com/">Virginia Mercury</a>’s Energy and Environment reporter <a href="https://virginiamercury.com/author/sheckt/">Shannon Heckt</a> who has been covering this.  Finally, <a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/newsletter/evening-wrap">Evening Wrap</a> newsletter author Danielle Gaines shares the top stories she’s watching.Episode produced and edited by Mallory Cheng. Music for Stories From The States composed by <a href="https://www.davidsingerfilm.com/">David Singer</a>.Click <a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/episode/struggle-inside-and-outside-data-centers">here</a> for the full transcript.Relevant reading from States Newsroom outlets and partners: <ul>
<li>
<a href="https://stateline.org/2025/11/17/data-center-growth-drives-locals-to-fight-for-more-say/">Data center growth drives locals to fight for more say</a> (Stateline)</li>
<li>
<a href="https://virginiamercury.com/2025/06/20/virginia-doesnt-have-statewide-data-center-regulations-localities-are-making-their-own-rules-instead/">Virginia doesn’t have statewide data center regulations. Localities are making their own rules.</a> (Virginia Mercury)</li>
<li>
<a href="https://scdailygazette.com/2025/12/19/gigawatt-data-center-proposal-draws-opposition-from-sc-lowcountry-residents-politicians/">Gigawatt data center proposal draws opposition from SC Lowcountry residents, politicians</a> (South Carolina Daily Gazette)</li>
<li>
<a href="https://newjerseymonitor.com/briefs/nj-bill-data-centers-electric-costs/">NJ lawmakers OK plan to charge data centers for spiking electric costs</a> (New Jersey Monitor)
</li>
<li>
<a href="https://georgiarecorder.com/2026/01/06/data-center-gold-rush-pits-local-officials-hunt-for-new-revenue-against-residents-concerns/">Data center ‘gold rush’ pits local officials’ hunt for new revenue against residents’ concerns</a> (Georgia Recorder)</li>
</ul>Photo: Shannon Wait speaks at a Colleton County public hearing for a proposed 860-acre data center campus proposed for South Carolina’s Lowcountry. (Photo courtesy of Shannon Wait)

With the rise of AI development, tech companies are investing billions to build massive data centers. 
Virginia is home to over 500 data centers and counting. State officials there say their construction will boost local economies and create long-term jobs. 
One former data center technician in South Carolina doesn’t agree.
And anxious residents are pushing back against the projects worried they could harm drinking water, spike electricity rates and bring noise pollution.  
In Episode 10, you’ll meet Shannon Wait. She was a temporary worker at one of Google’s data centers in Berkeley County, South Carolina. 
While there, Wait spoke out against the unfair labor practices, but was suspended. She filed a case with the National Labor Relations Board, and won.  
Now she’s a senior organizer at Alphabet Workers Union-CWA and a data policy advisor at TechEquity speaking out against the working conditions inside the facilities.
Northern Virginia has especially been seeing a boom in construction, but as more buildings are planned for Southern Virginia, residents are growing concerned about how this will hurt their water and wallets. 
There aren't any statewide data center regulations, so localities are putting their foot down.  
You’ll hear from the Virginia Mercury’s Energy and Environment reporter Shannon Heckt who has been covering this.  
Finally, Evening Wrap newsletter author Danielle Gaines shares the top stories she’s watching.
Episode produced and edited by Mallory Cheng. Music for Stories From The States composed by David Singer.
Click here for the full transcript.
Relevant reading from States Newsroom outlets and partners: 


Data center growth drives locals to fight for more say (Stateline)
Virginia doesn’t have statewide data center regulations. Localities are making their own rules. (Virginia Mercury)
Gigawatt data center proposal draws opposition from SC Lowcountry residents, politicians (South Carolina Daily Gazette)
NJ lawmakers OK plan to charge data centers for spiking electric costs (New Jersey Monitor)


Data center ‘gold rush’ pits local officials’ hunt for new revenue against residents’ concerns (Georgia Recorder)
Photo: Shannon Wait speaks at a Colleton County public hearing for a proposed 860-acre data center campus proposed for South Carolina’s Lowcountry. (Photo courtesy of Shannon Wait)

The struggle inside and outside of data centers

State lawmakers have taken the lead on regulating kratom. The controversial herbal supplement is often used for pain relief, anxiety and opioid withdrawal symptoms. Last summer, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration pushed to ban 7-hydroxymitragynine, also known as 7-OH, saying it posed serious health risks and should be classified as a controlled substance with heroin and LSD. In Louisiana, legislators initiated a statewide ban on kratom because of that ingredient.  In Episode 9, we’ll hear from our States Newsroom colleagues at the Louisiana Illuminator. For their podcast called <a href="https://www.wwno.org/podcast/the-light-switch">The Light Switch</a>, they took a deep dive into kratom as Louisiana lawmakers debated the ban in 2025.Louisiana Illuminator editor Greg LaRose will help us understand both sides of the kratom discussion. This was done in partnership with <a href="https://www.wwno.org/">WWNO, New Orleans Public Radio station</a>.Episode produced and edited by Mallory Cheng. Music for Stories From The States composed by <a href="https://www.davidsingerfilm.com/">David Singer</a>. A special thank you to Greg LaRose from the Louisiana Illuminator and WWNO, New Orleans Public Radio. Got questions? An episode idea? Email us at <a href="mailto:podcasts@statesnewsroom.com">podcast@statesnewsroom.com</a>.Click <a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/episode/kratom-collision-course">here</a> for the full transcript: Relevant reading from States Newsroom outlets and partners: <ul>
<li>
<a href="https://utahnewsdispatch.com/2025/12/17/utah-legislature-will-consider-a-kratom-ban-next-year/">Utah Legislature will consider a kratom ban next year</a> (Utah News Dispatch)
</li>
<li>
<a href="https://ohiocapitaljournal.com/2025/12/16/ohio-board-of-pharmacy-issues-emergency-ruling-banning-most-kratom-products-for-180-day/">Ohio Board of Pharmacy issues emergency ruling banning most kratom products for 180 days</a> (Ohio Capital Journal)
</li>
<li>
<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2025/12/05/feds-seize-thousands-of-7-oh-products-from-kansas-city-warehouses/">Feds seize thousands of 7-OH products from Kansas City warehouses</a> (Missouri Independent)
</li>
<li>
<a href="https://stateline.org/2025/08/11/kratom-faces-increasing-scrutiny-from-states-and-the-feds/">Kratom faces increasing scrutiny from states and the feds</a> (Stateline)
</li>
</ul> Photo: An advertisement for kratom at a shop in Phoenix, Arizona. (Jerod MacDonald-Evoy/Arizona Mirror)

State lawmakers have taken the lead on regulating kratom. The controversial herbal supplement is often used for pain relief, anxiety and opioid withdrawal symptoms. 
Last summer, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration pushed to ban 7-hydroxymitragynine, also known as 7-OH, saying it posed serious health risks and should be classified as a controlled substance with heroin and LSD. 
In Louisiana, legislators initiated a statewide ban on kratom because of that ingredient. 

In Episode 9, we’ll hear from our States Newsroom colleagues at the Louisiana Illuminator. For their podcast called The Light Switch, they took a deep dive into kratom as Louisiana lawmakers debated the ban in 2025.
Louisiana Illuminator editor Greg LaRose will help us understand both sides of the kratom discussion. This was done in partnership with WWNO, New Orleans Public Radio station.
Episode produced and edited by Mallory Cheng. Music for Stories From The States composed by David Singer. A special thank you to Greg LaRose from the Louisiana Illuminator and WWNO, New Orleans Public Radio. 
Got questions? An episode idea? Email us at podcast@statesnewsroom.com.
Click here for the full transcript: 
Relevant reading from States Newsroom outlets and partners: 


Utah Legislature will consider a kratom ban next year (Utah News Dispatch)


Ohio Board of Pharmacy issues emergency ruling banning most kratom products for 180 days (Ohio Capital Journal)


Feds seize thousands of 7-OH products from Kansas City warehouses (Missouri Independent)


Kratom faces increasing scrutiny from states and the feds (Stateline)



Photo: An advertisement for kratom at a shop in Phoenix, Arizona. (Jerod MacDonald-Evoy/Arizona Mirror)

Kratom Collision Course

The Trump administration proposed $12 billion in aid to farmers to help recover from temporary market disruptions and high production costs. However, the administration did not mention the effect of the tariffs that Trump put into place, which critics have said are responsible for decreased agricultural exports and hurting farmers’ bottom lines. While these one-time payments are expected to provide some relief, some farmers and economists want to see a long-term farm bill. In Episode 8, we’re handing the reins to our States Newsroom colleagues at the Kansas Reflector. Over in Topeka, the <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/podcasts/">Kansas Reflector Podcast</a> spoke with Jennifer Ifft, an extension specialist in agriculture policy at Kansas State University.Ifft talked with Kansas Reflector senior reporter <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/mchilson/">Morgan Chilson</a> about why long-term aid from the federal government is needed to support farmers.Episode produced and edited by Mallory Cheng. Music for Stories From The States composed by <a href="https://www.davidsingerfilm.com/">David Singer</a>. A special thank you to <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/mchilson/">Morgan Chilson</a> from the <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/">Kansas Reflector</a>. Got questions? An episode idea? Email us at <a href="mailto:podcasts@statesnewsroom.com">podcast@statesnewsroom.com</a>. Click <a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/episode/finding-long-term-farm-aid-fix-after-huge-agricultural-losses">here</a> for the full transcript:  Relevant reading from States Newsroom outlets and partners: <ul>
<li>
<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/trump-send-12-billion-one-time-payments-farmers-offset-ag-losses">Trump to send $12 billion in one-time payments to farmers to offset ag losses</a> (States Newsroom D.C. Bureau)
</li>
<li>
<a href="https://capitolnewsillinois.com/news/illinois-ag-director-says-trump-trade-policies-are-crushing-farmers/">Illinois ag director says Trump trade policies are ‘crushing’ farmers</a> (Capitol News Illinois)</li>
<li>
<a href="https://southdakotasearchlight.com/2025/12/11/we-need-fundamental-changes-sd-farmers-react-to-trumps-farm-aid-payments/">‘We need fundamental changes’: SD farmers react to Trump’s farm aid payments</a> (South Dakota Searchlight)
</li>
<li>
<a href="https://iowacapitaldispatch.com/2025/12/11/iowa-panel-warns-of-mixed-economic-picture-predicts-slight-revenue-upturn/">Iowa panel warns of ‘mixed’ economic picture, predicts slight revenue upturn</a> (Iowa Capital Dispatch)
</li>
<li>
<a href="https://wisconsinexaminer.com/2025/12/17/wisconsin-agriculture-faces-uncertainty-heading-into-2026/">Wisconsin agriculture faces uncertainty heading into 2026</a> (Wisconsin Examiner) 
</li>
</ul> Photo: Cattle roam in a pasture near Killdeer in southwest North Dakota. (Jeff Beach/North Dakota Monitor)

The Trump administration proposed $12 billion in aid to farmers to help recover from temporary market disruptions and high production costs. 
However, the administration did not mention the effect of the tariffs that Trump put into place, which critics have said are responsible for decreased agricultural exports and hurting farmers’ bottom lines. 
While these one-time payments are expected to provide some relief, some farmers and economists want to see a long-term farm bill. 
In Episode 8, we’re handing the reins to our States Newsroom colleagues at the Kansas Reflector. Over in Topeka, the Kansas Reflector Podcast spoke with Jennifer Ifft, an extension specialist in agriculture policy at Kansas State University.
Ifft talked with Kansas Reflector senior reporter Morgan Chilson about why long-term aid from the federal government is needed to support farmers.
Episode produced and edited by Mallory Cheng. Music for Stories From The States composed by David Singer. A special thank you to Morgan Chilson from the Kansas Reflector. 
Got questions? An episode idea? Email us at podcast@statesnewsroom.com.


Click here for the full transcript: 


Relevant reading from States Newsroom outlets and partners: 


Trump to send $12 billion in one-time payments to farmers to offset ag losses (States Newsroom D.C. Bureau)


Illinois ag director says Trump trade policies are ‘crushing’ farmers (Capitol News Illinois)
‘We need fundamental changes’: SD farmers react to Trump’s farm aid payments (South Dakota Searchlight)


Iowa panel warns of ‘mixed’ economic picture, predicts slight revenue upturn (Iowa Capital Dispatch)


Wisconsin agriculture faces uncertainty heading into 2026 (Wisconsin Examiner) 



Photo: Cattle roam in a pasture near Killdeer in southwest North Dakota. (Jeff Beach/North Dakota Monitor)

Finding a long term farm aid fix after huge agricultural losses

As childhood vaccination rates fall, several diseases once considered eradicated are back and spreading, most notably measles and whooping cough. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has been vocal in changing vaccine recommendations for children, particularly calling for restrictions on COVID-19 and Hepatitis B vaccines. It’s all despite the CDC’s own data showing they are safe and effective. Some Democratic-led states are banding together to create their own health coalitions to combat reversal of the CDC’s decades-long recommendations and provide clear information to their constituents. While others, mostly Republican-led states, are trying to eliminate vaccine requirements for children.In Episode 7, Oregon-based <a href="https://www.oregonlegislature.gov/reynolds">Dr. Lisa Reynolds</a> shares how her state is reacting to the confusing and polarizing information from the CDC. Dr. Reynolds is also the Oregon State Senator for District 17.Then, we’ll head over to Florida, where Governor Ron DeSantis and state Surgeon General Joseph Ladapo are pushing to end vaccine requirements for public schools and daycare. <a href="https://floridaphoenix.com/author/csexton/">Christine Sexton</a>, a senior reporter at the <a href="https://floridaphoenix.com/">Florida Phoenix</a>, will give us the rundown.Finally, <a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/newsletter/evening-wrap">Evening Wrap</a> newsletter author Danielle Gaines shares the top stories she’s watching.Episode produced and edited by Mallory Cheng. Music for Stories From The States composed by <a href="https://www.davidsingerfilm.com/">David Singer</a>.  Click <a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/episode/who-decides-what-vaccines-child-should-get">here</a> for the full transcript. Relevant reading from States Newsroom outlets and partners: <ul>
<li>
<a href="https://stateline.org/2025/12/17/measles-cases-rise-amid-holiday-travel/">Measles cases rise amid holiday travel</a> (Stateline)</li>
<li>
<a href="https://www.texastribune.org/2025/12/17/texas-measles-mennonite-seminole-aftermath/">Blamed for the nation’s historic measles outbreak, West Texas Mennonites have hardened their views on vaccines</a> (Texas Tribune)</li>
<li>
<a href="https://newjerseymonitor.com/2025/12/09/cdc-vaccine-reversal-spurs-nj-legislators-to-act/">CDC vaccine reversal spurs NJ legislators to act</a> (New Jersey Monitor)</li>
<li>
<a href="https://lailluminator.com/2025/12/08/louisiana-surgeon-general/">Louisiana’s new surgeon general is a vaccine skeptic aligned with anti-abortion forces</a> (Louisiana Illuminator) </li>
<li>
<a href="https://utahnewsdispatch.com/2025/12/11/measles-spreads-in-waiting-rooms-call-ahead-utah/">Measles spreads in waiting rooms, so call ahead instead of walking in, health officials say</a> (Utah News Dispatch)</li>
</ul> Got questions? An episode idea? Email us at <a href="mailto:podcasts@statesnewsroom.com">podcast@statesnewsroom.com</a>Photo: Photo of a single dose of the MMR vaccine. (Joshua Haiar/South Dakota Searchlight)

As childhood vaccination rates fall, several diseases once considered eradicated are back and spreading, most notably measles and whooping cough. 
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has been vocal in changing vaccine recommendations for children, particularly calling for restrictions on COVID-19 and Hepatitis B vaccines. It’s all despite the CDC’s own data showing they are safe and effective. 
Some Democratic-led states are banding together to create their own health coalitions to combat reversal of the CDC’s decades-long recommendations and provide clear information to their constituents. While others, mostly Republican-led states, are trying to eliminate vaccine requirements for children.
In Episode 7, Oregon-based Dr. Lisa Reynolds shares how her state is reacting to the confusing and polarizing information from the CDC. Dr. Reynolds is also the Oregon State Senator for District 17.
Then, we’ll head over to Florida, where Governor Ron DeSantis and state Surgeon General Joseph Ladapo are pushing to end vaccine requirements for public schools and daycare. Christine Sexton, a senior reporter at the Florida Phoenix, will give us the rundown.
Finally, Evening Wrap newsletter author Danielle Gaines shares the top stories she’s watching.
Episode produced and edited by Mallory Cheng. Music for Stories From The States composed by David Singer. 


Click here for the full transcript.


Relevant reading from States Newsroom outlets and partners: 


Measles cases rise amid holiday travel (Stateline)
Blamed for the nation’s historic measles outbreak, West Texas Mennonites have hardened their views on vaccines (Texas Tribune)
CDC vaccine reversal spurs NJ legislators to act (New Jersey Monitor)
Louisiana’s new surgeon general is a vaccine skeptic aligned with anti-abortion forces (Louisiana Illuminator) 
Measles spreads in waiting rooms, so call ahead instead of walking in, health officials say (Utah News Dispatch)


Got questions? An episode idea? Email us at podcast@statesnewsroom.com
Photo: Photo of a single dose of the MMR vaccine. (Joshua Haiar/South Dakota Searchlight)

Who decides what vaccines a child should get?

SNAP benefits are back, but the federal government is hinting at changes to the food-assistance program.U.S. Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins has called for the almost 42 million people who receive SNAP to reapply and has threatened to yank funding from Democratic-led states. Meanwhile, some food banks and food pantries are experiencing an increase in demand even after the government reopened in mid-November. Now, they’re bracing themselves. In Episode 6, we’re heading over to Arnold, Missouri to chat with Patrick McKelvey. He’s the executive director of <a href="https://www.gatewayfoodpantry.org/">Gateway Food Pantry</a>.Now, with upcoming SNAP work requirement changes because of the One Big Beautiful Bill, they’re worried the need will only increase.And they anticipate other changes too. In recent weeks, the Trump administration has threatened to make additional bureaucratic changes to the federal food-assistance program. Jacob Fischler, States Newsroom’s D.C. Deputy Bureau Chief will help us understand what’s happening.Finally, <a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/newsletter/evening-wrap">Evening Wrap</a> newsletter author Danielle Gaines shares the top stories she’s watching.Episode produced and edited by Mallory Cheng. Music for Stories From The States composed by <a href="https://www.davidsingerfilm.com/">David Singer</a>.  Relevant reading from States Newsroom outlets and partners:  <ul>
<li>
<a href="https://penncapital-star.com/food-insecurity/pennsylvania-makes-joint-demand-for-snap-data-safeguards-with-d-c-20-other-states/">Pennsylvania makes joint demand for SNAP data safeguards with D.C., 20 other states</a> (Pennsylvania Capital-Star)
</li>
<li>
<a href="https://rhodeislandcurrent.com/2025/12/08/feds-drop-appeal-in-snap-shutdown-case-as-lawsuit-continues-in-rhode-island/">Feds drop appeal in SNAP shutdown case as lawsuit continues in Rhode Island</a> (Rhode Island Current)
</li>
<li>
<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/trump-administration-threatens-yank-food-stamps-funding-democratic-led-states">Trump administration threatens to yank food stamps funding from Democratic-led states</a> (States Newsroom D.C. Bureau)
</li>
<li>
<a href="https://oregoncapitalchronicle.com/2025/11/26/oregon-co-leads-suit-against-usda-over-cuts-to-food-assistance-for-refugees-asylum-seekers/?emci=7eb1c763-5ecc-f011-8195-000d3a1d58aa&amp;emdi=5acfd2c3-68cc-f011-8195-000d3a1d58aa&amp;ceid=655747">Oregon co-leads suit against USDA over cuts to food assistance for refugees, asylum seekers</a> (Oregon Capital Chronicle) 
</li>
<li>
<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/briefs/missouri-set-to-block-junk-food-from-snap-purchases-after-usda-approval/">Missouri set to block junk food from SNAP purchases after USDA approval</a> (Missouri Independent) 
</li>
</ul> Click <a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/episode/why-snap-food-crisis-isnt-over-yet">here</a> for the full transcript.Got questions? An episode idea? Email us at <a href="mailto:podcasts@statesnewsroom.com">podcast@statesnewsroom.com</a> Photo: The Gateway Food Pantry in Arnold, Missouri is still seeing an increased demand of need in their community, even after the government reopened in mid-November. (Photo courtesy of Patrick McKelvey)

SNAP benefits are back, but the federal government is hinting at changes to the food-assistance program.
U.S. Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins has called for the almost 42 million people who receive SNAP to reapply and has threatened to yank funding from Democratic-led states. 
Meanwhile, some food banks and food pantries are experiencing an increase in demand even after the government reopened in mid-November. Now, they’re bracing themselves. 
In Episode 6, we’re heading over to Arnold, Missouri to chat with Patrick McKelvey. He’s the executive director of Gateway Food Pantry.
Now, with upcoming SNAP work requirement changes because of the One Big Beautiful Bill, they’re worried the need will only increase.
And they anticipate other changes too. In recent weeks, the Trump administration has threatened to make additional bureaucratic changes to the federal food-assistance program. Jacob Fischler, States Newsroom’s D.C. Deputy Bureau Chief will help us understand what’s happening.
Finally, Evening Wrap newsletter author Danielle Gaines shares the top stories she’s watching.
Episode produced and edited by Mallory Cheng. Music for Stories From The States composed by David Singer. 


Relevant reading from States Newsroom outlets and partners: 


Pennsylvania makes joint demand for SNAP data safeguards with D.C., 20 other states (Pennsylvania Capital-Star)


Feds drop appeal in SNAP shutdown case as lawsuit continues in Rhode Island (Rhode Island Current)


Trump administration threatens to yank food stamps funding from Democratic-led states (States Newsroom D.C. Bureau)


Oregon co-leads suit against USDA over cuts to food assistance for refugees, asylum seekers (Oregon Capital Chronicle) 


Missouri set to block junk food from SNAP purchases after USDA approval (Missouri Independent) 



Click here for the full transcript.
Got questions? An episode idea? Email us at podcast@statesnewsroom.com


Photo: The Gateway Food Pantry in Arnold, Missouri is still seeing an increased demand of need in their community, even after the government reopened in mid-November. (Photo courtesy of Patrick McKelvey)

Why the SNAP food crisis isn’t over yet

If you’re standing along the beach in southeast Rhode Island, you might see some wind turbines out in the ocean. They are part of a major project meant to build up the renewable energy supplies in Rhode Island and Connecticut eventually powering 350,000 homes. The Revolution Wind project was about 80% completed when the Trump administration abruptly paused its construction. Although work has now resumed, one tradesman working on wind infrastructure projects is worried about the future of the industry. In Episode 5, we’re diving into one project that suffered a blow in Trump’s war on offshore wind as a renewable energy source. We’ll hear from <a href="https://rhodeislandcurrent.com/author/nancy-lavin/">Nancy Lavin</a> from the <a href="https://rhodeislandcurrent.com/">Rhode Island Current</a> about what led to the Revolution Wind project being suspended and the politics surrounding renewable energy efforts – who is lining up for and against these projects.We’ll also chat with Nick Reynolds, a member of <a href="https://www.iupatdc11.com/">Local 195 of District Council 11</a>, a local painters’ union, who worked on the project. Finally, <a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/newsletter/evening-wrap">Evening Wrap</a> newsletter author Danielle Gaines shares the top stories she’s watching.Episode produced and edited by Mallory Cheng. Music for Stories From The States composed by <a href="https://www.davidsingerfilm.com/">David Singer</a>. A special thank you to <a href="https://rhodeislandcurrent.com/author/christopher-shea/">Christopher Shea</a> from the <a href="https://rhodeislandcurrent.com/">Rhode Island Current</a>. Click here for the full transcript: Relevant reading from States Newsroom outlets and partners:  <ul>
<li>
<a href="https://ctmirror.org/2025/11/24/ct-revolution-wind-ruling-appeal/">Revolution Wind work goes on as Trump administration misses deadline</a> (CT Mirror)
</li>
<li>
<a href="https://rhodeislandcurrent.com/2025/11/14/rhode-island-energy-breaks-off-contract-with-southcoast-wind-amid-federal-uncertainty/">Rhode Island Energy breaks off contract with SouthCoast Wind amid federal uncertainty</a> (Rhode Island Current)
</li>
<li>
<a href="https://spotlightdelaware.org/2025/11/05/delaware-ag-enters-delmarva-offshore-wind-fight/">Delaware AG enters Delmarva offshore wind farm fight</a> (Spotlight Delware)
</li>
<li>
<a href="https://lailluminator.com/2025/11/07/trump-wind-policy-hurts-offshore-oil/">As offshore wind energy falls flat under Trump, Louisiana businesses wait and hope</a> (Louisiana Illuminator)
</li>
</ul> Got questions? An episode idea? Email us at <a href="mailto:podcasts@statesnewsroom.com">podcast@statesnewsroom.com</a> Photo: One of the installed Revolution Wind turbine sitting along the coast of Rhode Island is shown. (Photo courtesy of Ørsted)

If you’re standing along the beach in southeast Rhode Island, you might see some wind turbines out in the ocean. They are part of a major project meant to build up the renewable energy supplies in Rhode Island and Connecticut eventually powering 350,000 homes. 
The Revolution Wind project was about 80% completed when the Trump administration abruptly paused its construction. Although work has now resumed, one tradesman working on wind infrastructure projects is worried about the future of the industry. 
In Episode 5, we’re diving into one project that suffered a blow in Trump’s war on offshore wind as a renewable energy source. 
We’ll hear from Nancy Lavin from the Rhode Island Current about what led to the Revolution Wind project being suspended and the politics surrounding renewable energy efforts – who is lining up for and against these projects.
We’ll also chat with Nick Reynolds, a member of Local 195 of District Council 11, a local painters’ union, who worked on the project. 
Finally, Evening Wrap newsletter author Danielle Gaines shares the top stories she’s watching.
Episode produced and edited by Mallory Cheng. Music for Stories From The States composed by David Singer. A special thank you to Christopher Shea from the Rhode Island Current. 
Click here for the full transcript: 
Relevant reading from States Newsroom outlets and partners: 


Revolution Wind work goes on as Trump administration misses deadline (CT Mirror)


Rhode Island Energy breaks off contract with SouthCoast Wind amid federal uncertainty (Rhode Island Current)


Delaware AG enters Delmarva offshore wind farm fight (Spotlight Delware)


As offshore wind energy falls flat under Trump, Louisiana businesses wait and hope (Louisiana Illuminator)




Got questions? An episode idea? Email us at podcast@statesnewsroom.com


Photo: One of the installed Revolution Wind turbine sitting along the coast of Rhode Island is shown. (Photo courtesy of Ørsted)

Blown away: The wind turbine project caught in a Trump battle

This week we’re detouring from our regular programming exploring current events in the states and D.C. to revisit a collaboration delving into the most contentious yet successful wildlife restoration story in U.S. history – wolf reintroduction. We’re handing the reins to our colleagues at the <a href="https://idahocapitalsun.com/">Idaho Capital Sun</a> and <a href="https://www.boisestatepublicradio.org/">Boise State Public Radio</a>. Earlier this year, they released a five-episode podcast series exploring how politics and science have collided while these wolves struggled to survive. <a href="https://idahocapitalsun.com/podcasts/howl-a-new-series-podcast-about-natures-greatest-comeback/">Howl</a> recently won <a href="https://creatorawards.rode.com/">Rode’s Creator of the Year</a> award in podcasting.In this episode of <a href="https://idahocapitalsun.com/podcasts/howl-a-new-series-podcast-about-natures-greatest-comeback/">Howl</a>, reporters Clark Corbin and Heath Druzin trek back 30 years to the beginnings of wolf reintroduction from the people who put the predators back on the Western landscape. Episode produced and edited by Mallory Cheng. Music for Stories From The States composed by <a href="https://www.davidsingerfilm.com/">David Singer</a>. Special thanks to <a href="https://www.boisestatepublicradio.org/">Boise State Public Radio</a> and the <a href="https://idahocapitalsun.com/">Idaho Capital Sun</a>.To hear the full <a href="https://idahocapitalsun.com/podcasts/howl-a-new-series-podcast-about-natures-greatest-comeback/">Howl</a> series, head to <a href="https://idahocapitalsun.com/podcasts/howl-a-new-series-podcast-about-natures-greatest-comeback/">https://idahocapitalsun.com/podcasts/howl-a-new-series-podcast-about-natures-greatest-comeback/</a>.Relevant reading from States Newsroom outlets and partners: <ul>
<li><a href="https://coloradonewsline.com/2025/11/18/colorado-new-source-of-wolves-washington/">Colorado running out of options for new source of wolves after Washington rejects request (Colorado Newsline)</a></li>
<li><a href="https://dailymontanan.com/2025/11/15/district-court-hears-arguments-over-wolf-hunting-regulations/">District Court hears arguments over wolf hunting regulations (Daily Montanan)</a></li>
<li><a href="https://sourcenm.com/2025/11/12/new-mexico-wolf-relocation-prompts-outcry-from-advocates/">New Mexico wolf relocation prompts outcry from advocates (Source New Mexico)</a></li>
<li><a href="https://wisconsinexaminer.com/2025/10/30/new-wisconsin-wolf-hunt-rules-set-to-take-effect/">New Wisconsin wolf hunt rules set to take effect (Wisconsin Examiner)</a></li>
</ul> Got questions? An episode idea? Email us at <a href="mailto:podcasts@statesnewsroom.com">podcast@statesnewsroom.com</a> Photo: Logo for “Howl” from a podcast collaboration from Boise State Public Radio and the Idaho Capital Sun.

This week we’re detouring from our regular programming exploring current events in the states and D.C. to revisit a collaboration delving into the most contentious yet successful wildlife restoration story in U.S. history – wolf reintroduction. 
We’re handing the reins to our colleagues at the Idaho Capital Sun and Boise State Public Radio. Earlier this year, they released a five-episode podcast series exploring how politics and science have collided while these wolves struggled to survive. 
Howl recently won Rode’s Creator of the Year award in podcasting.
In this episode of Howl, reporters Clark Corbin and Heath Druzin trek back 30 years to the beginnings of wolf reintroduction from the people who put the predators back on the Western landscape. 
Episode produced and edited by Mallory Cheng. Music for Stories From The States composed by David Singer. Special thanks to Boise State Public Radio and the Idaho Capital Sun.
To hear the full Howl series, head to https://idahocapitalsun.com/podcasts/howl-a-new-series-podcast-about-natures-greatest-comeback/.
Relevant reading from States Newsroom outlets and partners: 

Colorado running out of options for new source of wolves after Washington rejects request (Colorado Newsline)
District Court hears arguments over wolf hunting regulations (Daily Montanan)
New Mexico wolf relocation prompts outcry from advocates (Source New Mexico)
New Wisconsin wolf hunt rules set to take effect (Wisconsin Examiner)


Got questions? An episode idea? Email us at podcast@statesnewsroom.com


Photo: Logo for “Howl” from a podcast collaboration from Boise State Public Radio and the Idaho Capital Sun.

'Kill All the Goddamn Wolves And The People Who Brought Them’

Many GOP-led states like Indiana are facing pressure from the president to redistrict. However, Utah’s redistricting fight was spearheaded by voters, who ultimately won.  In Episode 3, <a href="https://utahnewsdispatch.com/author/katie-mckellar/">Katie McKellar</a> from the <a href="https://utahnewsdispatch.com/">Utah News Dispatch</a> will break down the state’s recent redistricting fight between anti-gerrymandering groups and the Utah Legislature. You’ll also meet <a href="https://utahnewsdispatch.com/2025/11/11/utah-democrats-likely-to-win-house-seat-2026-new-map/">Katharine Biele</a>, one of the plaintiffs of the winning case. She’s the President of the League of Women Voters of Utah.But is all this mid-decade redistricting normal? Brennan Center for Justice’s <a href="https://www.brennancenter.org/about/leadership/kareem-crayton">Kareem Crayton</a>, who holds a doctorate in political science, will help us answer that. Finally, <a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/newsletter/evening-wrap">Evening Wrap</a> newsletter author Danielle Gaines shares the top stories she’s watching out for.Episode produced and edited by Mallory Cheng. Music for Stories From The States composed by <a href="https://www.davidsingerfilm.com/">David Singer</a>.Click <a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/episode/beyond-utahs-new-maps-and-will-mid-decade-redistricting-be-new-normal">here</a> for the full transcript: Relevant reading from States Newsroom outlets and partners: <ul>
<li><a href="https://indianacapitalchronicle.com/2025/11/21/can-trumps-political-threats-swing-indiana-senate-on-redistricting/">Can Trump’s political threats swing Indiana Senate on redistricting? (Indiana Capital Chronicle)</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.texastribune.org/2025/11/18/texas-redistricting-ruling-lawsuit-el-paso-court-2026-midterms/">Federal court blocks Texas from using new congressional gerrymander in 2026 midterms (The Texas Tribune)</a></li>
<li><a href="https://ncnewsline.com/briefs/voting-rights-groups-ask-federal-judges-to-block-new-gerrymandered-nc-congressional-districts/">Voting rights groups ask federal judges to block new gerrymandered NC congressional districts (NC Newsline)</a></li>
</ul> Got questions? An episode idea? Email us at <a href="mailto:podcasts@statesnewsroom.com">podcast@statesnewsroom.com</a>

Many GOP-led states like Indiana are facing pressure from the president to redistrict. 
However, Utah’s redistricting fight was spearheaded by voters, who ultimately won.  
In Episode 3, Katie McKellar from the Utah News Dispatch will break down the state’s recent redistricting fight between anti-gerrymandering groups and the Utah Legislature. 
You’ll also meet Katharine Biele, one of the plaintiffs of the winning case. She’s the President of the League of Women Voters of Utah.
But is all this mid-decade redistricting normal? Brennan Center for Justice’s Kareem Crayton, who holds a doctorate in political science, will help us answer that. 
Finally, Evening Wrap newsletter author Danielle Gaines shares the top stories she’s watching out for.
Episode produced and edited by Mallory Cheng. Music for Stories From The States composed by David Singer.
Click here for the full transcript: 
Relevant reading from States Newsroom outlets and partners: 

Can Trump’s political threats swing Indiana Senate on redistricting? (Indiana Capital Chronicle)
Federal court blocks Texas from using new congressional gerrymander in 2026 midterms (The Texas Tribune)
Voting rights groups ask federal judges to block new gerrymandered NC congressional districts (NC Newsline)

Got questions? An episode idea? Email us at podcast@statesnewsroom.com

Beyond Utah’s new maps, will mid-decade redistricting be the new normal?

Across the country, many communities are seeing an increased presence of federal immigration agents. Chicago, Los Angeles and New York City have seen aggressive and sometimes violent tactics from ICE officers trying to apprehend people from the street and from their homes. In Episode 2, you’ll meet <a href="https://ohiocapitaljournal.com/2025/09/26/ice-releases-ohio-hospital-chaplain-case-for-detention-unclear/">Ayman Soliman</a>, a former Cincinnati Children’s Hospital chaplain. He was detained by ICE for 73 days, and now shares his experience.  Soliman has been in the U.S. since 2014 fleeing persecution from the Egyptian government, where Ayman was detained and tortured for his work as a journalist. In 2018 he was granted asylum in the U.S. However, his asylum was revoked in June and he was asked to meet with ICE officials on July 9. At the check-in, Ayman was detained by ICE and sent to Butler County Jail in Hamilton, Ohio. Although the Trump administration contends that ICE is focused on detaining and deporting hardened criminals, Ayman disagrees. “I don’t think these are the worst of the worst. This is just a statement that they made to convince the American public that these people deserve to be deported and to cover their racist reasons behind the deportation.” With increased ICE raids, many U.S. citizens also have been swept up and detained. You’ll hear from Washington, D.C., Bureau reporter Ariana Figueroa, who has reported about this development.Finally, <a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/newsletter/evening-wrap">Evening Wrap</a> newsletter author Danielle Gaines shares the top stories she’s watching out for.Episode produced and edited by Mallory Cheng. Music for Stories From The States composed by <a href="https://www.davidsingerfilm.com/">David Singer</a>. Special thank you <a href="https://ohiocapitaljournal.com/author/marty-schladen/">Marty Schladen</a> from the <a href="https://ohiocapitaljournal.com/">Ohio Capital Journal</a>.Click <a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/episode/73-days-ice-detention-ohio-hospital-chaplain-speaks-out">here</a> for the full transcript. Got questions? An episode idea? Email us at <a href="mailto:podcasts@statesnewsroom.com">podcast@statesnewsroom.com</a>.Subscribe to Stories From the States on <a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/stories-from-the-states/id1847663106">Apple Podcasts</a>, <a href="https://open.spotify.com/show/2TfHKVIvoHKZVTGN3DL2WM">Spotify</a> and <a href="https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL72cugzwBvh94gElF228ZiklLWVK2gxuJ">Youtube</a>.Photo: Ayman Soliman, the former Muslim chaplain at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital whom federal authorities are trying to deport on what his lawyers are saying is a trumped-up basis. (Photo courtesy of the Ohio Immigrant Alliance.)

Across the country, many communities are seeing an increased presence of federal immigration agents. Chicago, Los Angeles and New York City have seen aggressive and sometimes violent tactics from ICE officers trying to apprehend people from the street and from their homes. 
In Episode 2, you’ll meet Ayman Soliman, a former Cincinnati Children’s Hospital chaplain. He was detained by ICE for 73 days, and now shares his experience.  
Soliman has been in the U.S. since 2014 fleeing persecution from the Egyptian government, where Ayman was detained and tortured for his work as a journalist. In 2018 he was granted asylum in the U.S. 
However, his asylum was revoked in June and he was asked to meet with ICE officials on July 9. At the check-in, Ayman was detained by ICE and sent to Butler County Jail in Hamilton, Ohio. 
Although the Trump administration contends that ICE is focused on detaining and deporting hardened criminals, Ayman disagrees. 
“I don’t think these are the worst of the worst. This is just a statement that they made to convince the American public that these people deserve to be deported and to cover their racist reasons behind the deportation.” 
With increased ICE raids, many U.S. citizens also have been swept up and detained. You’ll hear from Washington, D.C., Bureau reporter Ariana Figueroa, who has reported about this development.
Finally, Evening Wrap newsletter author Danielle Gaines shares the top stories she’s watching out for.
Episode produced and edited by Mallory Cheng. Music for Stories From The States composed by David Singer. Special thank you Marty Schladen from the Ohio Capital Journal.
Click here for the full transcript. 
Got questions? An episode idea? Email us at podcast@statesnewsroom.com.
Subscribe to Stories From the States on Apple Podcasts, Spotify and Youtube.
Photo: Ayman Soliman, the former Muslim chaplain at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital whom federal authorities are trying to deport on what his lawyers are saying is a trumped-up basis. (Photo courtesy of the Ohio Immigrant Alliance.)

73 days in ICE detention: an Ohio hospital chaplain speaks out

The passage of the “One Big Beautiful Bill” deeply slashed Medicaid funding. Almost $1 trillion will be cut from the program over the next ten years. But what does it look like for recipients now in 2025?  In Episode 1, you’ll meet a current recipient, 26-year-old Emma Widmar from Racine, Wisconsin, who considers Medicaid a lifeline. "I simply would not be able to have a quality of life. I would potentially, you know, I could die. And I think people think that I'm being dramatic when I say that, but it's true." You’ll also hear from reporter <a href="https://ohiocapitaljournal.com/author/marty-schladen/">Marty Schladen</a> from the <a href="https://ohiocapitaljournal.com/">Ohio Capital Journal</a> about reaction in Ohio, where some state politicians celebrated the decision. Then <a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/newsletter/evening-wrap">Evening Wrap</a> newsletter author Daneille Gaines shares the top stories she’s watching out for.Episode produced and edited by Mallory Cheng. Music for Stories From The States composed by <a href="https://www.davidsingerfilm.com/">David Singer</a>. Special thank you to <a href="https://wisconsinexaminer.com/author/erik-gunn/">Erik Gunn</a>, Deputy Editor of the <a href="https://wisconsinexaminer.com/">Wisconsin Examiner</a>.Click <a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/episode/impending-medicaid-cuts-create-giant-question-mark-recipients">here</a> for the full transcript. For more information on today’s episode visit, <a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/podcast/stories-states">https://www.newsfromthestates.com/podcast/stories-states</a>. Subscribe to Stories From the States on <a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/stories-from-the-states/id1847663106">Apple Podcasts</a>, <a href="https://open.spotify.com/show/2TfHKVIvoHKZVTGN3DL2WM">Spotify</a> and <a href="https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL72cugzwBvh94gElF228ZiklLWVK2gxuJ">Youtube</a>.Got questions? An episode idea? Email us at <a href="mailto:podcasts@statesnewsroom.com">podcast@statesnewsroom.com</a>.Photo: Emma Widmar, shown with her dog Zander, has relied on Medicaid while managing complex health problems that she has had since she was 12. (Photo courtesy of Emma Widmar)

The passage of the “One Big Beautiful Bill” deeply slashed Medicaid funding. Almost $1 trillion will be cut from the program over the next ten years. But what does it look like for recipients now in 2025?  
In Episode 1, you’ll meet a current recipient, 26-year-old Emma Widmar from Racine, Wisconsin, who considers Medicaid a lifeline. 
"I simply would not be able to have a quality of life. I would potentially, you know, I could die. And I think people think that I'm being dramatic when I say that, but it's true." 
You’ll also hear from reporter Marty Schladen from the Ohio Capital Journal about reaction in Ohio, where some state politicians celebrated the decision. 
Then Evening Wrap newsletter author Daneille Gaines shares the top stories she’s watching out for.
Episode produced and edited by Mallory Cheng. Music for Stories From The States composed by David Singer. Special thank you to Erik Gunn, Deputy Editor of the Wisconsin Examiner.
Click here for the full transcript. 
For more information on today’s episode visit, https://www.newsfromthestates.com/podcast/stories-states. 
Subscribe to Stories From the States on Apple Podcasts, Spotify and Youtube.
Got questions? An episode idea? Email us at podcast@statesnewsroom.com.
Photo: Emma Widmar, shown with her dog Zander, has relied on Medicaid while managing complex health problems that she has had since she was 12. (Photo courtesy of Emma Widmar)

‘I could die’: A Wisconsin woman fears impending Medicaid cuts, while others celebrate

The federal government is making drastic changes to public policy and pushing so many programs “back to the states”. It’s hard to know what it all means for you, your family and your community. Stories From The States will put into perspective how what’s going on around one side of the country could affect you on the other end.Our first episode launches Friday, November 7th.  States Newsroom is the largest nonprofit state-focused news organization in the country. At this pivotal moment in American democracy, our veteran journalists from all 50 states are reporting the consequences of government decision making.

The federal government is making drastic changes to public policy and pushing so many programs “back to the states”. 
It’s hard to know what it all means for you, your family and your community. 
Stories From The States will put into perspective how what’s going on around one side of the country could affect you on the other end.
Our first episode launches Friday, November 7th. 


States Newsroom is the largest nonprofit state-focused news organization in the country. At this pivotal moment in American democracy, our veteran journalists from all 50 states are reporting the consequences of government decision making.

What's Stories From The States?

Daily news especially in today’s time can get overwhelming. At times it’s hard to keep up how it all could impact you, your family and your community. To help with that, we’re launching Stories From the States. Here’s an exclusive sneak peek into an upcoming episode on the impacts of Medicaid funding cuts. Our first episode launches on Friday November 7th.  States Newsroom is the largest nonprofit state-focused news organization in the country. At this pivotal moment in American democracy, our veteran journalists from all 50 states are reporting the consequences of government decision making.

Daily news especially in today’s time can get overwhelming. At times it’s hard to keep up how it all could impact you, your family and your community. 
To help with that, we’re launching Stories From the States. 
Here’s an exclusive sneak peek into an upcoming episode on the impacts of Medicaid funding cuts. 
Our first episode launches on Friday November 7th. 


States Newsroom is the largest nonprofit state-focused news organization in the country. At this pivotal moment in American democracy, our veteran journalists from all 50 states are reporting the consequences of government decision making.

An Exclusive Sneak Peek: Stories From The States

We’re launching a podcast to help make the news cycle a bit more digestible. Host and States Newsroom publisher Chris Fitzsimon, with producer Mallory Cheng, will focus on one theme in the news playing out in the states. Each episode will put into perspective how what’s going on around one side of the country could affect you on the other end.Our first episode launches on Friday November 7th.  States Newsroom is the largest nonprofit state-focused news organization in the country. At this pivotal moment in American democracy, our veteran journalists from all 50 states are reporting the consequences of government decision making.

We’re launching a podcast to help make the news cycle a bit more digestible. 
Host and States Newsroom publisher Chris Fitzsimon, with producer Mallory Cheng, will focus on one theme in the news playing out in the states. 
Each episode will put into perspective how what’s going on around one side of the country could affect you on the other end.
Our first episode launches on Friday November 7th. 


States Newsroom is the largest nonprofit state-focused news organization in the country. At this pivotal moment in American democracy, our veteran journalists from all 50 states are reporting the consequences of government decision making.

Coming Soon: Stories From The States

Stories From The States is a weekly podcast that explores how people and communities across America are being affected by government decisions.Host and States Newsroom publisher Chris Fitzsimon, with producer Mallory Cheng, will take one issue in the news and examine it. By zooming into one story each week, Stories From the States contextualizes what is happening now.First episode launches Friday, November 7th.States Newsroom is the largest nonprofit state-focused news organization in the country. At this pivotal moment in American democracy, our veteran journalists from all 50 states are reporting the consequences of government decision making.

Stories From The States is a weekly podcast that explores how people and communities across America are being affected by government decisions.
Host and States Newsroom publisher Chris Fitzsimon, with producer Mallory Cheng, will take one issue in the news and examine it. 
By zooming into one story each week, Stories From the States contextualizes what is happening now.
First episode launches Friday, November 7th.
States Newsroom is the largest nonprofit state-focused news organization in the country. At this pivotal moment in American democracy, our veteran journalists from all 50 states are reporting the consequences of government decision making.