US SIF 2026 Midterm Election Readout

Dear US SIF members,

I wanted to share some quick thoughts on the midterms. We have a general press release posted but wanted to share deeper insights for members.

More to come this week but here are some takeaways:

• Solid majorities in both houses that have a positive view of sustainable finance. The narrative on our issues will change and be more balanced.

• Relevant committee chairs (Senate Banking, House Financial Services (FSC)) are strongly aligned on our issues.

• 4 GOP strident anti-ESG FSC members were defeated, including the Capital Markets subcommittee chair Ann Wagner (MO). Also significant was Bryan Steil (WI) who led on the proxy advisor and anti-shareholder rights bill.

• Senate Banking will see two GOP retirements (Loomis (WY) and Tillis (NC) but otherwise no electoral changes. Sen Warren (MA) will become chair and we should expect a few new faces on the committee as the balance changes.

• All issues will be framed as affordability or anti-corruption/accountability. Watch for oversight hearings that will touch corporations that are perceived to be close to the WH (think donations to the ballroom).

• Important to note: Executive branch agencies still have authority and will likely continue with their plans. Congress has few tools to stop rulemaking, but it can slow it down.
  

Happy to chat and answer any questions.

Bryan McGannon
bmcgannon@ussif.org