Mandee Shivers – Life at Conception, Foster Care Reform, and Iowa’s Cancer Crisis
I recently had the opportunity to sit down with Mandee Shivers, who is running for Iowa State Senate District 11. Our conversation covered a wide range of topics, including the possibility of Iowa electing a Democrat governor in 2026, foster care reform, life at conception, Iowa’s cancer crisis, and legal immunity for pesticide companies.
Life at Conception
Mandee took a firm stance on life at conception, emphasizing that some issues are simply worth fighting for. She expressed disappointment with Rep. Jon Dunwell for cancelling the subcommittee on HF 2332, a bill that would have made abortion illegal in Iowa. Mandee said she would have preferred the bill to move forward—even without the votes to pass—because, in her view, the unborn are worth the fight. She also emphasized the importance of accountability, stating she wanted each legislator’s position on the issue clearly on record.
Equal Protections
Mandee also shared concerns about HF 2316, a bill that would treat abortion as homicide and potentially hold all parties legally responsible. While she supports banning abortion, she drew a distinction with this bill, noting that it could open the door to prosecuting mothers—including those who may have been coerced into an abortion. She pointed out that the bill explicitly exempts miscarriages and life-saving procedures but does not clearly carve out protections for coercion, which she sees as a significant issue.
Foster Care
Mandee spoke at length about Iowa’s foster care system, raising concerns about financial incentives that may encourage agencies to keep cases open longer than necessary. As a potential solution, she suggested implementing clearer timelines to help move cases toward resolution, while acknowledging that some situations do require more time. She referenced cases lasting nearly eight years as examples of a system that can sometimes fail to act in a timely manner.
She also highlighted the emotional toll on children who are required to maintain regular visits with abusive parents. According to Mandee, these situations can cause ongoing harm, with foster families left to help children recover after each visit. In cases like these, she argued it may be in the child’s best interest to move more quickly toward permanent solutions, rather than prolonging the process.
Iowa’s Cancer Crisis
Our discussion also touched on Iowa’s high cancer rates. Mandee was clear that pesticide companies should not have legal immunity if their products are found to contribute to cancer. At the same time, she emphasized the importance of maintaining space for agricultural innovation.
She shared a personal perspective from her family’s holistic farming practices, noting that despite their efforts, they are unable to market their products as organic due to chemical use on neighboring farms. This raises a broader question she highlighted: how to balance property rights when one farmer’s practices can directly impact another’s ability to operate differently.
Iowa Turning Blue?
Referencing a recent poll showing Rob Sand leading Randy Feenstra 51% to 39%, I asked whether Iowa could realistically elect a Democrat governor in 2026. Mandee acknowledged that possibility, pointing to Sand’s communication style and focus on issues that resonate with voters as factors contributing to his momentum.
Summary
Mandee Shivers brings forward a range of ideas aimed at improving life in Iowa, particularly in communities like Warren County and Knoxville. This conversation offered insight into her positions, priorities, and concerns. I encourage you to listen to the full interview as you consider your decision heading into the 2026 primary.
Episode Links
Mandee Shiver’s Website – https://www.shiversforsenate.com/
