The most valuable nomination of all time?

In the latest episode of the Still Counting podcast, discussions centered around Jon Ossoff and the uncertain yet promising future for the Democratic Party. The host reflected on recent experiences in Washington, D.C., contrasting the excitement of the 2008 presidential election with the more subdued atmosphere surrounding midterm elections. While Republicans have little to celebrate, Democrats face the challenge of maintaining momentum despite holding majorities in both the House and Senate. The episode hinted at the significance of the upcoming 2026 midterm elections and the potential for Democrats to reshape the political landscape leading into the 2028 presidential race.

A key focus of the episode was the "mini-draft" of potential Democratic primary candidates, where Ossoff emerged as a frontrunner. His strong performance in Georgia, winning by 18 points, positions him favorably among both moderate and progressive factions of the party. Despite his recent statements about not running in 2028, the podcast hosts speculated that Ossoff’s appeal and the desirability of the nomination may lead him to reconsider. The discussion highlighted the dynamics of candidate selection within the Democratic Party and the importance of appealing to a broad base.

Looking ahead to the 2028 election, the hosts noted that Democrats are seen as having strong fundamentals, with prediction markets favoring them as 2-to-1 favorites. However, they acknowledged the unpredictability of future elections, emphasizing that while historical precedents suggest a favorable outlook for Democrats, various factors could influence the outcome. The discussion included the potential impact of Trumpism on the Republican Party and the challenges of finding a candidate who can effectively distance themselves from Trump's influence.

The podcast also touched on the implications of the 2026 midterms for congressional control. While the Senate may remain in Democratic hands, the House presents a more complex picture due to the frequency of elections and the potential for redistricting impacts. The conversation underscored the importance of strategic planning for Democrats to secure long-term gains and maintain a robust position in both chambers of Congress.

Finally, the episode raised questions about the identity and direction of the Democratic Party as it approaches the critical 2028 nomination. With a lack of clear leadership, the party must define its platform and values to resonate with voters. As the hosts reflected on the current political landscape, they expressed excitement for future projects and updates, emphasizing their commitment to providing insightful analysis and engaging content for their audience.