World news and discussion on TalkFuse.
The Key 2026 Midterm Races Hollywood Is Watching
Hollywood’s Democratic activists and donors are approaching the 2026 midterms with cautious optimism, while still feeling worn down by the party’s 2024 losses, California wildfires and the film industry’s production slump. Improving prospects for Democrats to retake Congress have renewed some engagement, as the results could affect national policy and future Supreme Court appointments.
Major donors’ support for Democratic national committees has fallen, but smaller donors have been more active, particularly for candidates including Georgia Senator Jon Ossoff and Texas state senator James Talarico. Netflix co-founder Reed Hastings has given millions to Democratic groups, while Skydance chief David Ellison has also supported Republican and Democratic candidates. Hollywood campaigners have backed races including the Senate contests in Ohio and Texas, the Los Angeles mayoral contest, and California’s governor’s race; a recent poll showed a tie between Karen Bass and Nithya Raman for mayor.
In short
- Hollywood Democrats feel cautious about the midterms.
- Major donor support has waned, while smaller donors are active.
- Control of Congress and Supreme Court appointments are key concerns.
Steelman: both sides, in good faith
The strongest fair case each way — we don't pick a winner.
The case for
Hollywood activists and donors can reasonably see the midterms as a chance to check the current political direction and influence national policy, including future Supreme Court appointments. With Democrats’ prospects improving and smaller donors engaging, backing competitive races may help voters’ concerns gain representation and renew civic participation after a difficult period.
The case against
Others may argue that celebrity-backed fundraising risks giving wealthy and culturally influential people outsized sway over elections, while drawing attention away from local voters and issues. Given recent losses and the industry’s own difficulties, donors may also reasonably question whether campaign spending is effective or best directed towards candidates and causes beyond electoral politics.
Explained simply
US midterm elections take place halfway through a president’s four-year term. Voters choose all seats in the House of Representatives and some Senate seats, as well as candidates for state and local offices. The results can change which party controls Congress and how easily the president can pass laws.
Hollywood’s involvement includes campaign donors, industry figures and Democratic activists, who raise money and support candidates. Their attention spans races across the country, including contests for Congress and state and local offices in California. Donors can help campaigns reach voters, though voters decide the outcomes.
Control of Congress affects debates over national policy and the confirmation of federal judges, including Supreme Court justices. Midterm results also give parties an indication of public support before the next presidential election.
Americas Elections Entertainment Film Health Mental Health Politics World