As voters prepare to head to the polls for the November 2026 midterm elections, issues ranging from immigration and economic uncertainty to voter participation and state and local policy are shaping the political landscape. University of Maryland School of Public Policy faculty offer perspectives on the issues and dynamics that could influence this year's elections.
Niambi Carter
Niambi Carter is an associate professor at the University of Maryland School of Public Policy whose research focuses on public opinion, political behavior, immigration and racial and ethnic politics in the United States, with particular attention to the experiences of Black Americans. She is the author of the award-winning book American While Black: African Americans, Immigration, and the Limits of Citizenship (Oxford University Press, 2019) and a former Woodrow Wilson Center fellow.
Immigration is an emotional issue and not an evidence-based issue. Yet, draconian enforcement has turned the tide of public opinion.
In this election, like so many others, Black women are likely to show up in large numbers, but they have not done so while facing this level of unemployment in over 40 years.
There are over 30 gubernatorial races on the ballot this November and even more state and local ballot measures. State and local elections are most essential to your everyday life. Don't forget about these important elections.
