Midterm Madness: What's Happening This November [Trojan Family Weekend 2026]

Join veteran Democratic strategist Bob Shrum and Republican strategist Mike Murphy for a balanced, insightful, and often witty conversation about the biggest stories shaping the final stretch of the 2026 midterm elections.

As voters head to the polls across the country, Shrum and Murphy will break down the key races, campaign strategies, polling trends, and political dynamics that could determine control of Congress and influence the remainder of President Trump's second term. Drawing on decades of experience at the highest levels of American politics, they will offer unique perspectives from both sides of the aisle on one of the most consequential election cycles in recent history.

Shrum is a legendary Democratic strategist and speechwriter who has advised leaders including Ted Kennedy, Al Gore, and John Kerry. Murphy is a veteran Republican strategist who has worked on campaigns for Arnold Schwarzenegger, John McCain, Mitt Romney, and Jeb Bush. Longtime rivals and respected political insiders, Shrum and Murphy co-direct the USC Dornsife Center for the Political Future, which is dedicated to promoting civil, fact-based dialogue across political divides.

Bring your questions for an audience Q&A following the discussion.

The USC Dornsife Center for the Political Future brings political professionals, policymakers, and thought leaders together from across the ideological spectrum to model constructive bipartisan dialogue for students and the broader public. The Center's mission is to combine rigorous intellectual inquiry, teaching, and practical politics to advance civil discourse, bridge partisan divisions, and explore solutions to the nation's most pressing challenges.

REGISTER FOR TROJAN FAMILY WEEKEND HERE: familyweekend.usc.edu