Campaigns & Elections
The midterm effect: What the 2026 election could mean for public policy
This year’s midterm elections could result in a major political shake-up of federal, state, and local leadership. Many candidates face tight, well-funded races and a political climate energized by reactions to President Trump. Once the polls close on November 6, the time for analysis begins: Was the supposed “blue wave” successful? If yes, what are the implications? And if not, why? What can the results tell us about the governing challenges that will face America over the next two years?
On Thursday, November 8, Governance Studies at Brookings convened a panel of experts to address these questions and more. Panelists reviewed the results of the race, the factors that produced that outcome, and what this means for the state of American politics moving forward.
After the discussion, panelists took questions from the audience.
Agenda
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November 8
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Moderator
Indira Lakshmanan Executive Editor - Pulitzer Center, Washington Columnist - The Boston Globe @Indira_LPanelist
William A. Galston Senior Fellow - Governance Studies, Center for Effective Public Management (CEPM), Ezra K. Zilkha Chair in Governance Studies
Elaine Kamarck Founding Director - Center for Effective Public Management (CEPM), Senior Fellow - Governance Studies @EKamarck
Vanessa Williamson Senior Fellow - Governance Studies, Senior Fellow - Urban-Brookings Tax Policy Center @vanessawilliamson.bsky.social
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