Adam Hamilton & Denise Powell: Two Great Plains Midterm Upsets in the Making
Summary
John Heilemann examines the shifting political landscape in the Great Plains, featuring interviews with Democratic Senate candidate Adam Hamilton in Kansas and House candidate Denise Powell in Nebraska. Hamilton discusses his faith-based opposition to Trump’s policies and counters attacks labeling him "woke," while Powell addresses voter frustration over affordability and government corruption. The episode highlights how economic pain and moral outrage are driving competitive races in traditionally Republican strongholds ahead of the 2026 midterms.
Topics discussed
Intro: Trump's low approval and shifting political landscape in the Midwest
Guests introduced: Adam Hamilton and Denise Powell on their campaigns
Hamilton on moral outrage, immigration, and Senator Roger Marshall
Hamilton addresses AI-faked ads and attacks on his faith and ag stance
Hamilton on voter frustration, decency, and winning in Kansas
Powell on 'pissed off' voters, cost of living, and Nebraska politics
Powell's background: From Florida to launching Women Who Run Nebraska
Powell's primary win, dark money attacks, and opponent Brinker Harding
Powell on Harding's ads, party toxicity, and hope for change in Nebraska
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