NFDA Webinar (1 CE Hour)
Free for Members (This is a member's only webinar)
The November 2026 midterm elections will shape the political, legislative, and policy landscape and establish the priorities and dynamics of the 120th Congress.
Understanding the election results and their implications is essential to navigating the evolving policy environment and advancing issues that matter to funereal service and families we serve.
This timely educational session will examine the 2026 election results, explore what they reveal about the nation’s political and policy direction, and assess the implications of the new congressional landscape. Participants will learn about potential legislative opportunities and challenges, shifts in political leadership and priorities, and the implications for advocacy strategies and engagement with the new Congress.
The session will move beyond election outcomes to focus on what comes next: how funeral service can translate an understanding of the changing political environment into informed, strategic, and effective advocacy efforts. Learn how you can be a part of NFDA’s Advocacy Summit and committee and participate in grassroots events.
Learning Objectives:
At the conclusion of this session, participants will be able to:
1. Analyze the major outcomes of the November 2026 U.S. midterm elections and identify key factors shaping the national political landscape.
2. Describe the implications of the election results for congressional leadership, the balance of power, and the legislative and policy priorities of the 120th Congress.
3. Identify potential legislative opportunities and challenges that may affect the issues impacting funeral service.
Presenter:
Lesley Witter, MPA, CAE
Senior Vice President, Advocacy
National Funeral Directors Association (NFDA)
Lesley Witter serves as Senior Vice President of Advocacy for the National Funeral Directors Association (NFDA), providing executive leadership for one of the association’s core strategic functions: advancing legislative, regulatory, and public policy priorities that protect, strengthen, and shape the future of the funeral service profession. With 30 years of experience in federal government relations, advocacy, public policy, and association management, she is a nationally recognized leader and advocate for funeral service professionals and the families they serve.
Ms. Witter holds a Bachelor of Arts in Government and International Relations and a Master of Public Administration from George Mason University. She is a Certified Association Executive (CAE) and recognized for her leadership in advancing public policy, building coalitions, and strengthening advocacy as a strategic driver of NFDA’s mission.
Special Guest:
Chris Christian, CFSP, CCO, Licensed Funeral Director and Embalmer
NFDA Board President
Chris is a graduate of Volunteer High School and Jefferson State Community College with a degree in Mortuary Science. He is past-president of the Tennessee Funeral Directors Association and is currently President of the Board of the National Funeral Directors Association