Midterms: The Connection Between Civics And Democracy
Summary
Host Jen White interviews Hannah McCarthy and Nick Capodici, co-hosts of the podcast Civics 101, to discuss the 2026 midterm elections and the state of American civics. They explore how states manage election logistics, the impact of billionaire campaign spending, and the decline of local news coverage on voter knowledge. The conversation also addresses the rise of career politicians, the challenges teachers face in delivering civics education amid political polarization, and the importance of local civic engagement beyond voting.
Topics discussed
Introduction: 2026 Midterms and the need for civics education
Guest introductions: Hannah McCarthy and Nick Capodicici
Constitutional control of elections and local election officials
Why midterms matter: Referendum on the president and surge/decline
Record campaign spending and the influence of billionaires
2022 results and voter turnout patterns
The decline of local media and researching down-ballot races
Handling uncontested races and comparing voting systems
The role of school elections and civil discourse in education
The rise of career politicians vs. the Founding Fathers' intent
Civics education funding gaps and proficiency scores
Local civic engagement as a shield against political anxiety
State-level reforms and the growth of civics education
Teacher challenges: Restrictions, polarization, and fatigue
Teaching autocracy and the impact of political polarization
Youth voter registration and the impact of election fraud claims
Actionable civics homework: Attending local meetings and town halls
Closing remarks and resources for further learning
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