Midterms 2026: Fostering Civic Engagement in a Polarized Climate

Election seasons have long been an energizing moment on campuses, a shared, tangible reason for students to connect, debate, and get involved in American politics. But for many, current levels of distrust, dysfunction, and polarization make political engagement feel risky rather than exciting and energizing.

This webinar explores how campuses can set up the 2026 midterms to be a real civic opportunity rather than something to try to tune out or avoid. Experts in civic and democratic engagement will share what they’re hearing from students about the midterms, as well as practices for reframing election programming into opportunities to develop trust, connection, and engagement.

What You'll Discover

• What's driving students thinking about the 2026 midterms — including current attitudes on distrust, dysfunction, and polarization — so campuses can address the real barriers rather than assume interest alone will drive participation.
• Practical strategies for reframing election programming to build trust and connection first, turning the midterms into an opportunity for civic engagement rather than a moment students avoid.

Expert Panel

Moderator:

Jake Fay, Senior Director of Education, CDI

Featuring:

Michelle N. Deutchman, Executive DirectorUC National Center for Free Speech and Civic Engagement, UC National Center for Free Speech and Civic Engagement

Colleen Sonnentag, Assistant Vice President & Dean of Students, University of Northern Colorado

Leela Strong, Newhouse Director, CIRCLE @ Tufts University