What’s at Stake in the 2026 Midterms
Summary
New Yorker editors Tyler Foggett, Isaac Chautner, and Benjamin Wallace-Wells analyze the 2026 midterms, predicting a likely Democratic House win but a tight Senate race. They argue the election serves as a referendum on Trump’s unpopularity rather than a test of Democratic policy, with key battlegrounds including Texas, Ohio, and Maine. The discussion covers potential legislative impacts, such as blocking judicial nominees and funding fights, while assessing how results will shape the 2028 presidential field and the future of the Republican Party.
Topics discussed
Sponsorship: Dun & Bradstreet and Whole Foods Market
Introduction and the stakes of the midterm elections
Political signals vs. legislative outcomes of a blue wave
Predicting Senate control and key battleground states
Gut feelings and the viability of the Texas race
Sponsorship: Dun & Bradstreet and Lincoln Rejuvenate
Democratic party unity and the global anti-incumbent trend
Voter behavior shifts and concerns over election integrity
Sponsorship: Dun & Bradstreet and New Yorker Radio Hour promo
Potential investigations, impeachments, and judicial appointments
Looking ahead to 2028: Democratic candidates and party dynamics
Closing remarks and credits
Sponsorship: Dun & Bradstreet and One More Question promo
Listen ad-free on Castria