Bernhard Schlink & Peter Frey

The midterms in the U.S. serve as a verdict on the first two years of a presidency; they either allow the president to finish his term with strength or turn him into a “lame duck.” This year, public sentiment had turned against Trump, but Republican states responded with massive “gerrymandering”—the redrawing of electoral districts to secure majorities for themselves. The tension leading up to the midterms centers not only on the question of who will win, but also on whether American democracy can hold its ground against drastic manipulation.

The outcome of the midterms (November 3, 2026) will have repercussions far beyond the U.S.; in Europe, it will not only affect security and the economy but will also either strengthen or weaken the authoritarian-populist right.

Former ZDF Director General Dr. Peter Frey and author Prof. Dr. Bernhard Schlink, who also lives in the U.S., will discuss the background and prospects of the midterms and, in particular, what the outcome means for Europe and the world.

In the “Spotlight on the U.S.” series