Are Republicans heading into a midterm “buzzsaw” — or can they defy history?

In this episode, Lisa Boothe sits down with Jessica Anderson to break down the early warning signs shaping the upcoming midterm elections. From shifting voter sentiment to the impact of foreign policy and economic concerns, they dive deep into what could determine control of Congress.

The conversation covers key battleground states, turnout challenges, and whether Republicans can energize low-propensity voters without former President Donald Trump on the ballot. Plus, how issues like the Iran conflict, gas prices, and trust in leadership are influencing independent voters and shaping the political landscape.

They also explore:

Why midterms historically hurt the party in power—and if 2026 could be different
The role of voter trust, messaging, and economic perception
How early voting, mail-in ballots, and data-driven outreach could decide close races
Key Senate battlegrounds including Michigan, Georgia, and North Carolina
Whether fears of “political chaos” could sway undecided voters

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