The Smerconish Podcast · Episode 2099 · November 4, 2026 · 8 min

Today's Poll Question: Did You Split Your Ticket?

Today's Poll Question at Smerconish.com: Did you split your ticket? Democrats have captured the House and Senate, President Trump says he accepts defeat, and the 2026 midterm results raise a fascinating question: Are Americans finally willing to cross party lines again? Michael examines the dramatic decline of split-ticket voting, from an era when nearly half of congressional districts voted for different parties to today's rigid partisan divide. Drawing on insights from Washington Post journalist Dan Balz, Michael explores how nationalized politics, disappearing local news, and partisan loyalty have transformed American elections. Could independent voters and the 2026 midterms signal a reversal? Cast your vote at Smerconish.com.