Midterm Elections Could Decide the Future of Key American Pillars, Says NYT Columnist By Nicholas Kristof, The New York Times October 30, 2026 The 2026 U.S. midterm elections are shaping up to be a decisive moment for several foundational aspects of American society, according to columnist Nicholas Kristof. While many voters focus on everyday concerns such as affordability, Kristof argues that the elections also determine the future of education, immigration, and the norms that underpin the country’s democratic system. Education Kristof notes that the United States pioneered mass education in the 19th century and now hosts universities and research institutions that are among the world’s most prestigious. He cites concerns that the Trump administration has taken steps that could undermine this system. Actions reported include attempts to dismantle the Department of Education, cut student aid, and reduce funding for the National Science Foundation and the National Institutes of Health. The administration has also pursued policies that could defund universities, revoke their tax‑exempt status, and restrict enrollment of foreign students. “The U.S. is committing suicide,” said Yasheng Huang, a professor at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, in reference to the administration’s approach to higher education and research. Immigration Kristof highlights the historical contribution of immigrants to American innovation and economic strength. He recounts a personal anecdote about a Chinese student, Sofie Qiao, who was admitted to Harvard, earned a doctorate, and became a biotechnology entrepreneur in Silicon Valley. Under Trump, the number of international students arriving in the United States for the fall semester fell by nearly 20% in August 2025 and by an additional 12% in August 2026, according to U.S. Department of Homeland Security data. Political Norms Kristof argues that, in addition to laws and the Constitution, unwritten norms have historically guided U.S. governance. He cites examples such as presidents honoring election results, refraining from targeting political rivals, and avoiding unnecessary trade wars. He contrasts this with actions taken by the Trump administration, including vilifying immigrants, denigrating women, and threatening to “annihilate” Iran. Kristof also references a statement made by Trump to Time magazine in which he said, “I could use it. A lot of people think I should use it sometimes,” referring to the Insurrection Act. Wealth and Influence A New York Times analysis found that Trump earned at least $2.2 billion in 2025, largely from his family’s cryptocurrency businesses, equating to more than $6 million per day. The article also notes that Amazon reportedly paid $40 million to acquire the Melania Trump documentary. International Impact Kristof suggests that Trump’s policies have weakened the international system the United States helped build after World War II, benefiting adversaries such as Russia and undermining global health initiatives. He cites the U.S. response to the Ebola outbreak and the broader context of U.S. foreign policy. Public Reaction Singer Bono described the current political situation as “the greatest heist in the history of the world: stealing America,” and said, “Everything we love is on the line.” Contact Nicholas Kristof can be reached at Facebook.com/Kristof, Twitter.com/NickKristof, or by mail at The New York Times, 620 Eighth Ave., New York, NY 10018.
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