WASHINGTON D.C. (April 2, 2026) – The McCain Institute at Arizona State University (ASU) today announced media partners for the 2026 Sedona Forum taking place May 1-2, 2026, in Sedona, Arizona.

Defense News, NOTUS, Punchbowl News, and The Washington Post are partnering with the McCain Institute to amplify the reach and impact of this year’s Sedona Forum.“This year’s Sedona Forum reflects Senator John McCain’s steadfast belief that America is an indispensable power in the world, despite the dynamics reshaping its position in the world. We’re proud to partner with NOTUS, Punchbowl News, The Washington Post, and our official defense media partner, Defense News, to share takeaways from the important conversations focused on real-world solutions to address the challenges to American dominance,” said McCain Institute Executive Director Dr. Evelyn Farkas.

“One of Senator John McCain’s best known qualities was his direct approach in conversation, known as his ‘straight talk.’ We’re proud to partner with this year’s Sedona Forum to highlight open and honest conversations in the spirit of Senator McCain,” said Punchbowl News Founder and CEO Anna Palmer.

“Our newsroom is committed to nonpartisan journalism by reporters from different backgrounds from across the country. The Sedona Forum’s commitment to bringing together thought leaders and decision-makers from all industries and experiences mirrors our efforts and we’re excited to be participating,” said NOTUS CEO Arielle Elliott.

Established by Senator John McCain, the Sedona Forum is the McCain Institute’s premier annual gathering of global leaders, policymakers, and bold thinkers tackling the world’s most urgent challenges. With a strong emphasis on bipartisanship, the forum aims to foster collaboration among leaders from both sides of the aisle, seeking solutions that transcend political divides to secure America’s leadership and influence in an increasingly complex and interconnected world.

“We’re proud to support the Sedona Forum’s consequential conversations, which deepen understanding, strengthen thought-provoking dialogue, and underscore the importance of press freedom and trustworthy journalism,” said The Washington Post’s Director, Impact Initiatives & Partnerships Natali Freeling.

“We’re honored to be selected as the Sedona Forum’s official defense media partner. This year’s event comes at a pivotal moment in military and geopolitical history. Insightful, forward-looking discussions on evolving threats and strategies, and the global conflicts they shape, are more paramount than ever,” said Editor-in-Chief of Defense News J.D. Simkins. Additional speakers and programming will be announced closer to the event.

Panels will be available to watch via livestream. To learn more about the event and register for the livestream, visit TheSedonaForum.org.

About the Sedona Forum

Inspired by the McCain family, the Sedona Forum is held each spring to advance themission of the McCain Institute: fighting for democracy, human dignity, and security. As the McCain Institute’s signature annual event, the forum provides a unique opportunity for U.S. and world leaders to have informal, face-to-face discussions about real solutions to the problems facing our world today.

About the McCain Institute at Arizona State University

The McCain Institute is a nonpartisan organization inspired by Senator John McCain and his family’s dedication to public service. We are part of Arizona State University and based in Washington, D.C. Our programs defend democracy, advance human rights and freedom, and empower character-driven leaders. Our unique power to convene leaders across the global political spectrum enables us to make a real impact on the world’s most pressing challenges. Our goal is action, not talk, and like Senator McCain, we are fighting to create a free, safe, and just world for all.

About Arizona State University

Arizona State University has developed a new model for the American research university, creating an institution that is committed to access, excellence and impact. ASU measures itself by those it includes, not by those it excludes. As the prototype for a New American University, ASU pursues research that contributes to the public good, and ASU assumes major responsibility for the economic, social and cultural vitality of the communities that surround it.

Contact: McCain Institute Press | press@mccaininstitute.org | 202-601-4296