Legislative outlook for 2026 – “Affordability, Affordability, Affordability”
In a forward-looking conversation, NewDEAL legislative leaders from blue and red states shared what they expect to be the top priorities in state legislatures in 2026 and how they plan to respond to voters’ top concern, affordability.
- Oregon House Majority Leader Ben Bowman, Florida House Minority Leader Fentrice Driskell, New Jersey Senate Majority Whip Vin Gopal, and Kansas House Minority Leader Brandon Woodard outlined plans for pragmatic policy solutions to address housing costs and supply, lower healthcare and utility costs, crack down on predatory lending, and more.
- Despite being in challenging political environments, Driskell and Woodard are optimistic that their efforts will resonate with voters. Woodard talked about Kansas Democrats’ road trip last year to hear from constituents — called the “Fight Back Tour” — and underscored the power of messaging on practical affordability solutions.