As the 2026 Midterms Approach, the Congressional Gerontocracy Continues
Candidates could move the needle slightly on the age divide. But reliably bringing younger voices into Congress will require structural change.
New America’s Political Reform program develops ambitious, evidence-based strategies to repair government dysfunction, rebuild civic trust, and realize the potential of American democracy. We combine structural and cultural approaches to reform, exploring how people engage in democracy not only at the ballot box but through everyday decisions that shape their communities. Our work exposes the dangers of the current “two-party doom loop” and champions the processes and policies needed to achieve a more representative and responsive democracy. We publish books, policy ideas, and practical tools that reimagine self-governance, and then partner with policymakers, community organizations, advocates, journalists, and funders to translate analysis into action. Together, we seek to build a democracy with the capacity, legitimacy, and resilience to serve a dynamic and diverse nation for generations to come.
Candidates could move the needle slightly on the age divide. But reliably bringing younger voices into Congress will require structural change.
Listen to a discussion exploring how community colleges are charting the future of American civic engagement.
Virtual
12PM – 1PM EDT
Senior Director, Political Reform Program
Deputy Director, Political Reform Program
Senior Fellow, Political Reform Program
Senior Data Analyst, Political Reform Program
Senior Fellow, Political Reform Program