Annenberg Radio News

The road to the 2026 midterms and what is at stake

USC students and faculty panelists discuss electoral results as they unfold live at an election night watch party co-hosted by USC Annenberg and USC Dornsife Center for the Political Future. (Photo by Tomoki Chien)
USC students and faculty panelists discuss electoral results as they unfold live at an election night watch party co-hosted by USC Annenberg and USC Dornsife Center for the Political Future. (Photo by Tomoki Chien)

In just nine months, Americans will once again cast their ballots in the midterm elections. The goal for both parties is to gain more congressional seats.

Currently, the Republicans have majority control over both the house and the senate. Historically, midterm elections are a reflection of the performance of the incumbent party.

What are the issues on the table this time? How are Americans feeling about all of it? What’s next for President Trump, and for the makeup of Congress?