Ep. 194 - The 2026 Political Cycle: What to look out for (and some bold predictions)

2026 is poised to be a chaotic year in politics and elections – with high-stakes consequences. So, what better time to analyze and predict the year ahead with Javelina's resident political experts?

In this episode, I'm joined by Javelina political strategists David Waid and Justin Plumb to unpack what they're already seeing in early 2026 — from fractures within both parties, to how campaigns are thinking about authenticity, to the role AI will (and won't) play in reaching voters. We get into voter turnout, midterm dynamics, wedge issues, and why some of the most effective candidates may be the ones who blend heart with strategy.

We also share our own bold predictions (some serious, some not-so-serious) about the races, actors, and surprises that may define this cycle — and what this moment is signaling about politics more broadly.

If you've been trying to make sense of the political landscape, this conversation offers insight, context, and a reminder that even unpredictable cycles have patterns worth watching.

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