With the midterm elections less than two months away, the Conversation is opening its doors to reader questions about the races that could shape the future of the United States. The primaries are wrapped, and our reporting team is fanned out across the country, from Washington to the Midwest and along the West Coast, to tell the stories behind the horse race.
Key Questions on the Democratic Coalition
One central question is what the rise of the progressive left means for the broader Democratic coalition, especially with the party poised to take the House and possibly the Senate. How will candidates like Michigan's Abdul El-Sayed co-exist with the party's more established centrists, and will the growing influence of democratic socialists push the party in a new direction?
To answer these and other questions, a panel of experts will join us at 12pm (EDT). The panel includes political breaking news correspondent Joseph Gedeon, Midwest political correspondent Rachel Leingang, US politics live blogger Shrai Popat, Washington bureau chief David Smith, and reporter Alice Speri.
Races and Candidates to Watch
Readers are invited to ask about Democratic candidates, key races, and the different directions this year's elections could take the party. The discussion comes amid a backdrop of notable primaries, including the sweeping victories of democratic socialist candidates, which have sparked backlash from centrist Democrats.
Other stories in the spotlight include Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez rejoining the DSA after a seven-year membership lapse, and candidates running on green policies such as disaster insurance, datacenters, and right to repair. The panel will also address whether Donald Trump's bid to brand Democrats as 'radical' communists is working, and the decline of corporate Democrats, as noted by Robert Reich.
Impact on the Election Outcome
The midterm elections, scheduled for November, could have an outsized impact on the future of the United States. The outcome will determine control of Congress and set the stage for the 2020 presidential race. The panel's answers will help clarify the stakes and the potential paths for the Democratic Party.
