- April 15, 2026
- ; 14:00
- -
- April 15, 2026
- ; 15:15

The 2026 U.S. midterm elections carry significant implications for domestic policy and the United States’ global role. What factors will shape the outcome of this pivotal vote? Which scenarios are most likely and how might they affect U.S. governance, foreign policy, and transatlantic relations?
Against this backdrop, Aspen Institute Germany welcomed Mark Bergman, a seasoned expert on political and geopolitical developments, for a roundtable discussion with a small group of Berlin-based stakeholders. Drawing on two decades of experience in London and Washington, D.C., Bergman shared his assessment of key electoral dynamics, including shifting voter coalitions, the role of polarization, and the often underestimated importance of state-level politics in shaping national outcomes.
The discussion also explored the implications for democratic resilience. Bergman highlighted challenges such as declining trust in institutions. He pointed to the growing importance of subnational governance, both within the United States and in transatlantic cooperation.
Mark Bergman is Principal of 7Pillars Global Insights, LLC, and advises on a wide range of political and geopolitical issues. He is affiliated with organizations including Chatham House, the International Crisis Group, the Institute for Strategic Dialogue, and Bellingcat, and serves on several advisory boards focused on democracy, media integrity, and transatlantic cooperation.
The roundtable took place on April 15, 2026, at Aspen Institute Germany.


