Thomas S. Foley InstituteUpcoming Events Calendar

Upcoming Events Calendar

October 20, 2026 – Midterm Election Series

Representation and the midterms

How could Black voter turnout and the presence of Black candidates affect the party balance in Congress, and what will it mean in terms of representation at all levels of politics?

Andrea Benjamin is associate professor at the University of Oklahoma. 

October 15, 2026 – Cosponsored event

Ballot initiative debate

There are three initiatives on the Washington State ballot this year:

Initiative 1 relates to parental rights to review educational materials, receive specific notifications, and opt their children out of sexual health education.

Initiative 638 would require school and voluntary nonprofit athletics to prohibit biologically male students from competing with and against biologically female students.

Initiative 645 would repeal the tax on household income over $1 million and prohibit state and local taxes on individual income.

The cases for an against each ballot will be made, and panelists will be answering questions.

October 15, 2026 – Midterm Election Series

Election Skepticism

Faith in American elections is eroding, with politicians frequently questioning the legitimacy of election results and spreading misinformation about voter fraud. How will this play into the upcoming midterm elections?

Lisa Bryant is professor of political science at California State University, Fresno.

October 14, 2026 – Cosponsored event

Candidate forum

Spokane NAACP hosts a candidate forum, featuring U.S. 5th Congressional District candidates Michael Baumgartner and Carmela Conroy, and separately Spokane Prosecutor candidates Preston McCollam and Danny Tarkenton

  • October 14, 2026, 6:00pm — Spokane Central Library

October 13, 2026 – Midterm Election Series

John Herrington: “Astronauts for America”

Astronauts for America is a nonpartisan organization that hosts civic discourse and election discussions between astronauts and college students, including how young people can participate in American democracy while upholding and defending the Constitution.

John Herrington is a former NASA astronaut and Navy aviator.

October 6, 2026 – Midterm Election Series

Jennifer Victor: “The Next Congress”

The 2026 midterm election is highly contested. What are the likely outcomes and what will the next Congress be able to pass?

Jennifer Victor is associate professor of political science at George Mason University’s Schar School of Policy and Government.

September 29, 2026 – Midterm Election Series

Nathan Katz: “Bankrupting democracy: Campaign finance and the election”

The 2010 Citizens United Supreme Court decision allowed unlimited campaign spending by corporations and unions. How far does this threaten democratic institutions and voters’ own interests?

Nathan Katz is assistant professor of sociology at Louisiana Tech University.

September 24, 2026 – Midterm Election Series

Sara Sadhwani: “Climate justice among Latino and Asian American Voters”

How are climate disasters disproportionately affecting Latino and Asian Americans? Can upward mobility break through a Congress gridlocked on climate policy?

Sara Sadhwani is an award-winning political scientist and Associate Professor of Politics at Pomona College.

Two people standing in back of pickup truck looking out over grape orchard during sunset with text, The Foley Institute, 2026 Midterm Election Series, Climate and the Midterms: Climate justice among Latino and Asian American voters; Thursday, Sept. 24, 12pm; Foley Speaker's Room, 308 Bryan Hall; How are climate disasters disproportionately affecting Latino and Asian Americans? Can upward mobility break through a Congress gridlocked on climate policy? Sara Sadhwani is an award-winning political scientist and Associate Professor of Politics at Pomona College.

September 17, 2026 – Constitution Day event

Constitution Day event: Documentary and discussion, “Flag Day”

On Constitution Day, join us for an inspiring documentary that focuses on the largest annual Flag Day parade located in Three Oaks, Michigan. It focuses on issues of ritual, identity, and belonging in a polarized America.

This event is co-sponsored by the Veterans and Military Affiliated Student Services (VMASS).

The showing will be followed by a discussion, moderated by Braver Angels WA, a non-profit dedicated to reducing political polarization.

  • September 17, 2026, 1:30 PM — Foley Speaker’s Room, 308 Bryan Hall
  • Space is limited — registration required
People in uniforms marching with flags.

September 15, 2026 – Midterm Election Series

David Kimball: “Redistricting and voting rights”

Redistricting shapes political representation and can have a lasting impact on voting rights and civic participation. How can we ensure that every community has an equal voice in the democratic process?

David Kimball is a professor of political science at University of Missouri-St. Louis.

Protestors in front of the Supreme Court.

September 10, 2026 – Foley Distinguished Service Award 2026

Reception and Dinner for Mike Pence, Recipient of the 2026 Thomas S. Foley Award

Please join the Foley Institute and distinguished guests for the presentation of the annual Thomas S. Foley Award for Distinguished Public Service to the 48th Vice President of the United States, Mike Pence.

Event Details

Mike Pence
Mike Pence