Nathan Gonzales, Jacob Rubashkin and Abby Turner of National Journal’s Hotline analyze the key messages and strategies ahead of the two biggest races of 2025 (the New Jersey and Virginia races for governor) as Republicans try to keep up their momentum from 2024 and Democrats try to get a bump heading into 2026. Jacob also celebrates victory over the Claw game, Abby gives an initial review of The Paper, and Nathan explains his dislike for awards shows despite his favorite comedian just hosting one.

Twitter profiles:

@nathanlgonzales

@jacobrubashkin

@abbyyturner_

@InsideElections

The Inside Elections podcast analyzes congressional, presidential and gubernatorial races in a nonpartisan, data-driven, and accessible way. With a combination of reporting and data, Inside Elections brings valuable context to complex races. Go to InsideElections.com to subscribe to the bi-weekly newsletter through individual subscriptions and group packages that are tailored for association and corporate PACs.

Referenced articles:

Ahead of November elections, Democrats stress-test affordability message [National Journal]

https://www.nationaljournal.com/s/729562/ahead-of-november-elections-democrats-stress-test-affordability-message/?unlock=YYCZSP8994YC8S8U

2025-26 Gubernatorial Overview: Open Seat Bonanza [Inside Elections]

https://insideelections.com/news/article/2025-2026-gubernatorial-overview-august-28-2025-open-seat-bonanza

2026 House Overview: Can Redistricting Cushion Potential Fall? [Inside Elections]

https://www.insideelections.com/news/article/2026-house-overview-sept.-11-2025-can-redistricting-cushion-potential-fall

2026 Gubernatorial Ratings [Inside Elections]

https://insideelections.com/ratings/governor/2025-26-gubernatorial-ratings-august-28-2025

2026 House Ratings [Inside Elections]

https://insideelections.com/ratings/house/2026-house-ratings-september-11-2025

2026 Senate Ratings [Inside Elections]

https://insideelections.com/ratings/senate/2026-senate-ratings-august-28-2025

Inside Elections merch [Dashery]

https://inside-elections.dashery.com/