Edwin Eisendrath is joined by David Nir, publisher of The Downballot. The discussion examined how state and local election dynamics, campaign finances, and election administration shape the broader political landscape.

Here are a few highlights from the conversation:
- Candidate campaigns can buy broadcast advertising at legally mandated lowest rates; super PACs and other outside groups pay market rates, making candidate donations especially effective.
- Grassroots support for local candidates can have a larger impact in lower-budget races, while candidates running in heavily Republican districts can still narrow margins and offer voters a choice.
- Nir said polling remains uncertain, but special elections, primaries, fundraising, and the political environment point toward Democratic gains amid dissatisfaction with Republican governance.
- He noted that Republican candidates are defending fewer seats while Democrats are expanding the political battlefield.
- He said delayed counts and litigation are normal, and emphasized that election administration rests with thousands of state and local authorities rather than the federal government.

Catch “It’s the Democracy, Stupid” Saturdays from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. Central on WCPT (heartlandsignal.com/programs/edwin).   

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