SILVER SPRING, MD - Following yesterday’s historic midterm elections, the Association of University Centers on Disabilities (AUCD) issued the following statement reaffirming its commitment to policy, research, and rights for people with developmental and other disabilities.
Elections are a fundamental expression of civic engagement and democracy in action. Yesterday, millions of Americans cast their ballots to shape the leadership and priorities of their communities and our nation.
This election marks a historic moment for representative leadership. Across the nation, voters elected a record-setting class of groundbreaking leaders, highlighted by historic firsts for women in public office. Authentic representation ensures our halls of government reflect the lived experiences of everyday Americans, reinforcing the foundational principle that public policy is strongest when all voices are present at the table.
"Disability is not a partisan issue," said Kimberly Knackstedt, Ph.D., Executive Director of AUCD. "As we prepare to welcome both newly elected and returning leaders, AUCD’s national network stands ready to serve as an indispensable resource. Next week, our community will gather right here in Washington, D.C., for the AUCD 2026 Annual Conference. There is no better moment to unite our researchers, clinicians, educators, self-advocates, and family leaders to share evidence-based solutions with the incoming Congress, ensuring every disabled person is supported to learn, work, and thrive."
As the newly elected Congress convenes in January, AUCD remains committed to collaboration across both sides of the aisle to protect civil rights, expand workforce participation, ensure access to education and health care, and uphold our collective vision of full participation in the community.
About AUCD
The Association of University Centers on Disabilities (AUCD) is a national, nonpartisan network of university-based programs focused on advancing policy and practice for and with individuals with developmental and other disabilities, their families, and communities. The membership of AUCD includes a national Network of 68 University Centers for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities (UCEDDs), 62 Leadership Education in Neurodevelopmental and Related Disabilities (LENDs) Programs, and 15 Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Research Centers (IDDRCs), serving every state and territory. Together, these Centers and Programs provide a direct national impact through direct services, the development of new professionals, and the use of new knowledge generated from our research.
