48 Days Until the Midterms: Is a Blue Wave Coming?
Sep 16, 2026 · 36m
Summary
With 48 days until the midterms, a new Times poll shows Democrats leading by nearly 9 points, suggesting a potential wave election for congressional control. The discussion highlights major obstacles for Democrats, including a $500 million Republican financial advantage and the rise of Democratic Socialist nominees that Republicans are leveraging to paint opponents as radicals. The panel analyzes how Trump’s unpopularity and personal legacy projects are dragging down his party, while also noting the growing political impact of AI data centers and the shifting dynamics of the post-Trump era.
Topics discussed
Sponsor: Teram and the AI memory wall
Introduction: Midterm election outlook and guests
New poll: Democrats lead by 9 points in wave territory
Poll analysis: Trump's low approval and cost of living
Trump's strategy: Gluing party to his personal brand
Nate Cohn: Why red states are now competitive
Senate map: Path to flipping red states like Texas
Texas race: Demographics and candidate dynamics
Sponsor: Teram and NYT Tech subscription
Money: Republicans' $1B financial advantage
Ad strategy: How Republicans are spending their funds
Democratic Socialists: The 'Summer of Socialism' risk
Messaging: Fear tactics and Islamophobia concerns
Sleeper issue: Data centers and AI politics
Trump's reaction to potential loss of Congress
Conclusion: Turning a page in American politics
Sponsors: Teram and The Athletic Live
News briefs: Supreme Court and Kennedy Center rulings
Credits and sign-off
Sponsor: Teram recruitment
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