2026 Midterm Elections: What They Mean for Craft Brewers

The 2026 midterm elections will bring significant changes to Washington, D.C., with Democrats winning control of both the U.S. House of Representatives and Senate. The results establish divided government for the final two years of President Donald Trump's second term, creating a new political landscape for small and independent craft brewers.

When the 120th Congress convenes in January, changes in congressional leadership, committee assignments, and legislative priorities could influence several issues important to the brewing industry. While the full implications of the election will take shape over the coming months, the transition also presents opportunities for brewers to engage with newly elected lawmakers and strengthen the industry's relationships on Capitol Hill.

What the Election Means for Craft Brewers

Although the 120th Congress will not convene until January 2027, lawmakers will return to Washington in the coming weeks for a lame-duck legislative session. Several outstanding issues, including federal spending and hemp policy, could still receive attention before the end of the year. With the current Congress approaching its conclusion, lawmakers face a limited window to advance legislation before the new congressional majorities take office.

Looking ahead to the 120th Congress, the brewing industry should prepare for changes, both large and small, to the federal policy landscape. While the precise direction of these changes remains uncertain, new congressional leadership, committee assignments, and legislative priorities will reshape how lawmakers approach issues affecting small and independent breweries.

With Democrats assuming control of both chambers, we expect Congress to place greater emphasis on oversight of the Trump administration, particularly concerning trade policy and its impact on American businesses. For small brewers, this could create opportunities to highlight the financial pressures associated with tariffs on imported aluminum and other materials, while advocating for greater consideration of domestic small businesses in future trade decisions.

The new Congress could also revisit federal regulation of intoxicating hemp-derived products, including standards for consumer safety, labeling, and age restrictions. Meanwhile, bipartisan proposals aimed at reducing the cost of doing business, including the Brews to Barns Act, modernization of federal excise tax reporting requirements, and increased competition in credit card processing, could continue to attract support from lawmakers in both parties.

Building Relationships with the Next Congress

With a new Congress taking shape, the Brewers Association's annual Hill Climb will provide a particularly important opportunity for small and independent brewers to make their voices heard in Washington, D. C. The event brings brewery owners and industry representatives to Capitol Hill to meet directly with lawmakers and congressional staff, share the challenges facing their businesses, and advocate for policies that support the industry.

This engagement is especially important following significant turnover in the bipartisan Small Brewers Caucuses, which have long served as important advocates for the industry. Of the 147 members identified on the House Small Brewers Caucus roster, at least 33 will not return to their current House seats next year. The Senate Bipartisan Small Brewers Caucus will also experience turnover, with three members retiring and at least one incumbent losing reelection.

While the caucuses will retain many longstanding supporters, rebuilding their membership and establishing relationships with incoming lawmakers will be critical. For newly elected members of Congress, hearing directly from local brewery owners can help demonstrate the industry's contributions to their districts as employers, manufacturers, and community partners.

Participating in the Hill Climb is one of the most effective ways brewers can help build these relationships and ensure their concerns are heard early in the legislative process. Brewers are also encouraged to invite their newly elected representatives to visit their breweries, meet employees, and see firsthand the opportunities and challenges facing small businesses.

The Brewers Association will continue working with lawmakers from both parties to advance policies that reduce operating costs, modernize federal regulations, and strengthen the business environment for small and independent craft brewers. Continued engagement from breweries across the country will be essential to ensuring that the industry's voice remains strong on Capitol Hill.