Energy Shocks: Iran, AI, and the 2026 Midterms

About this episode

The episode discusses the impact of Middle East conflicts and AI on energy policy as it relates to the upcoming 2026 midterms.

Energy is back at the center of politics. From war in the Middle East disrupting oil and LNG flows through the Strait of Hormuz to AI-driven data centers sending U.S. power demand soaring, energy policy is shaping the road to the 2026 midterms. In the first episode back from a break, hosts Julia Pyper, Brandon Hurlbut, and Neil Chatterjee sit down with Rep. Mike Levin (D-CA) and former Rep. Ryan Costello (R-PA) at the Winterfest conference to discuss: How conflict in the Middle East is rattling energy markets and American consumers — and whether it could strengthen the case for clean energy. How to protect ratepayers as AI data centers push up electricity demand and power prices — and who will own the affordability debate. Why some conservatives are warming to solar — and whether clean energy companies are getting more politically savvy. Plus, some podcast news! Political Climate has partnered with ClearPath, a leading conservative clean energy advocacy organization focused on advancing American energy innovation while reducing global emissions. To kick things off, Julia speaks with ClearPath CEO Jeremy Harrell. Subscribe for smart conversations at the intersection of energy…

People in this episode

Hosts: Julia Pyper, Brandon Hurlbut, Neil Chatterjee

Guests: Mike Levin, Ryan Costello

Topics covered

• energy policy
• Middle East conflict
• AI and electricity demand
• clean energy
• 2026 midterms

Keywords

• oil
• LNG
• electricity prices
• solar energy
• political advocacy

Sponsors

ClearPath

Mentioned in this episode

Products: AI data centers, clean energy

Places: Iran, the Middle East, the Strait of Hormuz, U.S., CA, PA

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