In a significant move to enhance its political coverage, Vox is launching The Midterms, Actually a new weekly newsletter. This initiative, led by Astead W. Herndon aims to dissect the pivotal ideas and key figures driving the 2026 elections. The newsletter will provide a unique perspective on the evolving political landscape, focusing on the shifts within political parties, emerging coalitions, and overlooked voices.
The launch of The Midterms, Actually marks Vox’s first foray onto Substack a platform known for its independent newsletters. Readers can subscribe directly through Vox or follow the newsletter on Substack. Additionally, Astead will host regular Substack Lives, fostering direct engagement with readers and guests throughout the election cycle.
Astead W. Herndon’s Journey and Expertise
Astead W. Herndon brings a wealth of experience to this new venture. As the host and editorial director of Vox’s America, Actually podcast, he has been instrumental in understanding political change across the country. Herndon joined Vox in 2026, after a stint as a national political reporter at the New York Times where he also hosted The Run-Up, the Times’s flagship politics podcast. His reporting has consistently focused on American politics from a voter’s perspective, tracking changes from the ground up.
The Midterms, Actually will feature weekly breakdowns of one significant idea and one revealing insight from voters, candidates, organizers, and other key figures. The goal is to provide a comprehensive understanding of what the midterm elections signify for the future of American politics.
Expanding Today, Explained to Substack
Beginning today, Vox’s flagship daily newsletter, Today, Explained written by Caitlin Dewey will also be available on Substack. This move aims to reach a broader audience and provide deeper insights into the most important news stories. Every weekday afternoon, Today, Explained helps readers understand the big ideas behind current events, making complex topics accessible and engaging.
The expansion onto Substack is part of Vox’s strategy to diversify its content delivery platforms. By leveraging Substack’s independent and community-driven approach, Vox aims to foster more direct interactions with its readers and offer a more personalized news experience.
The Impact on Political Journalism
The launch of The Midterms, Actually and the expansion of Today, Explained to Substack represent a significant step in the evolution of political journalism. These initiatives reflect a growing trend among media organizations to adapt to changing consumer preferences and leverage new platforms to enhance engagement.
By providing in-depth analysis and direct engagement opportunities, Vox is positioning itself as a leader in political coverage. The Midterms, Actually, in particular, promises to offer a unique perspective on the 2026 elections, helping readers navigate the complexities of the political landscape.
As the political landscape continues to evolve, initiatives like these are crucial in ensuring that voters are well-informed and engaged. Vox’s commitment to innovative journalism and direct reader engagement sets a new standard for political coverage in 2026 and beyond.
