I’m Grace Panetta, a political reporter for The 19th News. Ask me anything!

We are a few weeks into the new year and American news and politics are already evolving at a breakneck pace. And all of this is just the start of a midterm election year with key races in states across the country.

Beyond some key names and seats, we’ll be closely watching how those in power, and those seeking it, discuss issues like the economy, abortion access, immigration, healthcare and more.

I’ll be following things around the country after covering notable elections in Virginia and New Jersey and previewing races from Maine to Texas to Iowa and beyond. And that will of course be intertwined with the latest actions of the Trump administration as we enter the second year of his second term.

What are your questions about the political situation at the start of 2026? Are there any particular issues or candidates you are following or want to learn more about? Just curious about our work and what we’re looking at this year? Ask me!

PROOF: https://imgur.com/a/H4sI6OW