2026 Fahrenkopf-Manatt Lecture

Moderated by Katie Phang, this lecture will include student-centered conversation with high level speakers on the current political climate, the threats to election process, rise in political violence, and perspectives on the rise of populism in the 2026 elections as America enters its 250th anniversary.

History of the Endowed Lecture Series

The Fahrenkopf-Manatt Lecture Series is named for Frank Fahrenkopf, a former Chair of the Republican National Committee during Ronald Reagan's presidency, now the Co-Chair of the Commission of Presidential Debates, and the late Charles T. Manatt, who was Chair of the Democratic National Committee in the same time period and later served as U.S. Ambassador to the Dominican Republic.

Although the two leaders had disparate views on specific issues, such as tax policy and defense spending, they always championed the integrity of the U.S. electoral process. They respected the essential role of a vigorous, fact-based competition of ideas in politics. They respected one another and made many joint appearances, including on university campuses.

Their careers as political leaders and the powerful example they continued to model after their terms ended inspired and helped to set the direction for the Graduate School of Political Management (GSPM) through its first 20 years.

There’s a reason The Graduate School of Political Management produces more congressional staffers with graduate degrees than any other school in the nation. Our faculty has helped shape the political landscape for decades, and can offer students a rare glimpse into the “room where it happens.” Our network of respected leaders, influencers, and master politicians can also connect students to unmatched mentorship and career opportunities inside and outside the Beltway.

*Photos and videos may be taken at the event. This content may be shared in various ways within GW and on external platforms.

Know what’s Happening Next — before everyone else does.

Get App

Host or Publisher GW Graduate School of Political Management