The Downballot The Great Hochul Turnaround
Feb 12, 2026
A fascinating look at a politician’s surprising comeback and the moves that turned her fortunes around. Sharp analysis of a bold strategy of confronting a former president and standing firm on controversial policies. Rapid recaps of upset wins in New Jersey, a big Democratic pickup in Louisiana, and a massive overperformance in Oklahoma.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Outside Intervention Can Backfire
- AIPAC's heavy attack on Tom Malinowski backfired and likely helped progressive Ana Lilia Mejia win the primary.
- Targeting near-allies can energize voters toward more extreme alternatives and produce strategic blowbacks.
Immigration Shaped The Primary
- ICE and immigration became decisive primary issues in New Jersey's 11th district and influenced voters heavily.
- Democratic primary voters increasingly reject unquestioning support for Israel and favor candidates critical of ICE.
Louisiana Special Election Upset
- In rural Louisiana, Democrat Chassidy Martinez won a 62-38 special election despite Trump carrying the district in 2024.
- Martinez ran on affordability and education to hold an ancestrally Democratic seat against heavy GOP trends.