KQED's Forum Are Democrats Well-Positioned for the Midterms?
Feb 23, 2026
Aimee Allison, founder of She the People, builds political power for women of color. Mark Leibovich, Atlantic staff writer, reports on national party dynamics. They debate Democratic strategy and organizing in the run-up to midterms. They discuss California tactics, leadership gaps, fundraising disadvantages, party unity amid Gaza, and how to win working-class voters.
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Democrats Languished After 2024 Loss
- The Democratic Party entered a prolonged identity crisis after the 2024 loss and struggled to respond to unprecedented threats.
- Mark Leibovich reports Democrats were stunned, slow to fight back, and only regained footing after strong 2024-2025 state performances like Virginia and New York.
Gavin Newsom Tore Up The Map And Won
- Gavin Newsom's Prop 50 fight to redraw maps became a practical model of aggressive Democratic action.
- Newsom took a big political risk to retake the map from Republican gerrymandering and succeeded, inspiring other Democrats.
Prepare Lawyers And State Infrastructure For Election Threats
- Prepare legally and administratively for novel election interference scenarios now.
- Mark Leibovich notes Democrats say they are mobilizing lawyers and readiness, and states with Democratic governors (California, Illinois, Michigan) will be easier to defend votes.