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UVA’s Larry Sabato Talks November Election

August 27, 2026
By: Colleen Phelps

Can we really expect a “Big, Blue Wave” in November, or will Democrats be disappointed on Election night?

Dr. Larry Sabato, the Director of UVA’s The Center for Politics, weighed in on the “The Jim Acosta Show.” The Center does a “crystal ball forecast,” and right now that forecast has a lot of Congressional seats trending in the democrat direction. “Democrats could have a good and possibly great night,” says Sabato.

Acosta pointed out that polls are looking like a blue wipeout. A recent Economist/YouGov poll found Trump is at a 33% approval rating. That’s lower than anywhere he was during his first administration, and it’s worse than where he was in 2018 – and that was a disastrous midterm cycle.

“Things have changed a lot since 2018,” cautions Sabato. “The Republicans have run a successful ploy with redistricting. They won the game as far as that’s concerned, not control of the House, but they have reduced inevitably whatever gains the Democrats have. When you look to see whatever the democrats gained, add 10 or 12 to it, that’s what it would have been without the Republican redistricting.”

With exactly 10 weeks until Election Day, everything remains up for grabs. Sabato says, “Democrats have to start doing smart, pragmatic things. And Donald Trump and the Republicans have to continue to do really stupid things that upset people, that seem crazy and nutty. And I bet on that happening. Every day in the Trump era seems like a year.”

Buckle up, it will be a long 10 weeks.

Take Action

  • Get involved! Become a poll worker, knock doors for local candidates, and donate to campaigns where you are able! The Midterm Elections Are Coming – Here’s How to Help

Learn More

  • Sabato’s Crystal Ball via UVA’s The Center for Politics

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