The Smerconish Podcast · Episode 2104 · November 6, 2026 · 26 min

Trump Lost. Democrats Won. But Independents Hold the Real Power.

Democrats swept the 2026 midterms, but are they drawing the wrong conclusions from their victory? Michael examines two overlooked forces behind the historic blue wave: independent voters and moderate Democrats. First, Jeremy Gruber, Senior Vice President of Open Primaries, explains why he calls the election an "independent voter tsunami." From Texas to Iowa and beyond, independents helped deliver Democratic victories. But was their vote an endorsement of Democratic policies—or a rejection of Donald Trump and partisan politics? Then, Oliver Libby, founder of Strong Floor, No Ceiling, joins Michael to discuss his Washington Post analysis arguing that centrist Democrats, not progressives, delivered many of the most consequential victories. What can the party learn from candidates who emphasized affordability, patriotism, economic opportunity, and a positive vision for America? Two perspectives, one unmistakable warning: Democrats shouldn't mistake an anti-Trump wave for a lasting mandate. And with 2028 approaching, the battle for independent voters may determine who wins the White House. Original air dates 4 and 5 November 2026.