Clean Water and Cancer Rates Spark Debate in Iowa's Midterm Elections

Iowa's midterm elections have highlighted concerns over clean water and cancer rates, issues that are gaining traction in the state's politics. The Des Moines Water Works' lawsuit against Buena Vista, Calhoun, and Sac counties in 2015 for nitrate pollution of the Raccoon River is still unresolved.

Democrat Chris Jones has made a splash by paddling down the polluted Des Moines River and criticizing corn ethanol. His campaign has emphasized the connection between water pollution and cancer rates.

The Iowa legislature amended the state constitution 15 years ago to dedicate funding for clean air and water, but it remains unimplemented. Democrat Rob Sand is campaigning on implementing this initiative with a small increase in sales tax.