Episode Details

Paid family leave debates, 'dark money' accusations in Georgia primary, and new rankings on state transparency are all shaping the political conversation ahead of the 2026 midterms. 

In today’s episode of The Center Square Daily, Greg Bishop highlights Georgia’s high-stakes Republican gubernatorial primary, where Lt. Gov. Burt Jones and businessman Rick Jackson are locked in one of the most expensive governor’s races in state history, fueled by tens of millions in campaign spending and accusations of “dark money” influence. And with narrow margins in Congress and ongoing redistricting battles nationwide, we examine how upcoming primaries could shape control of the U.S. House and Senate ahead of the November midterms. 

We also explore the growing push for paid family leave policies led by nursing unions in Pennsylvania, with debates centering on taxpayer costs, staffing shortages, and healthcare outcomes. Greg speaks with The Center Square regional editor Christen Smith about the political and economic implications of expanding paid leave policies beyond the healthcare industry, including concerns from taxpayers, employers, and lawmakers over rising costs and government mandates. 

Meanwhile, a new report from Truth in Accounting ranks states on financial transparency, highlighting which governments are most accountable with taxpayer dollars — and which states are falling behind with delayed audits, hidden pension liabilities, and poor financial reporting practices. This year's report reveals major differences in how states report spending, pension obligations, and audit results, with New Mexico, West Virginia, and Indiana topping the list while Connecticut, Georgia, and North Carolina rank at the bottom. 

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