How Will the 2026 Midterm Election Outcomes Shape Healthcare Policy?

Heather E. Meade

Principal, Washington Council Ernst & Young, Ernst & Young LLP

Heather is a principal at Washington Council Ernst & Young where she guides health care companies, nonprofits, employers and stakeholders through the complex federal political and policy process.

A former ERISA attorney, Congressional staffer and political campaign operative with over 15 years of experience, Heather brings strategic business, political and policy insights to clients.

Using legislative and regulatory strategies, coalition building, data and policy development, communications and bipartisan advocacy, Heather helps clients create change on Capitol Hill.

Heather is a frequent public speaker on Congress and health policy issues and is a member of the New York State and the District of Columbia Bars.

Douglas J. Friednash

Chair, State Government Relations Group, Brownstein Hyatt Farber Schreck

Doug Friednash provides strategic insights on government relations engagement throughout the lifecycle of an issue, opening channels of communication and collaboration in state capitols across the country and in Washington. As chair of the firm’s State Government Relations Group, he plays a vital role as a connector for his clients, bridging the gap between the private sector and all levels of government. Doug’s notable experience in the public sector includes roles as former chief of staff to Colorado Gov. John Hickenlooper, city attorney under Denver Mayor Michael Hancock, member of the state House of Representatives, and assistant attorney general. This experience allows him to foster a favorable working atmosphere for businesses looking to engage in state and local politics.

Joe Jaso

Policy Director, Brownstein Hyatt Farber Schreck

Joe Jaso uses his government relations executive experience to lead multistate lobbying efforts. Drawing on his ability to navigate a variety of issues at the state and local levels as well as at the federal level, Joe develops and implements engagement strategies that help companies establish a network of key policymakers throughout the United States. He works on behalf of clients across the health care, security, education, energy and telecommunications arenas to advance legislative and business objectives on Capitol Hill, in state legislatures and with local governments across the country. A strong storyteller, he crafts messaging on behalf of clients and their executives to communicate with elected officials and their staff.