Washington, D.C. (May 18, 2026) – McCain Institute Executive Director Dr. Evelyn Farkas has been named to the Washingtonian’s 500 Most Influential People of 2026 list, in recognition of leaders who are shaping policy, business, and innovation across the Washington D.C. region.
“This acknowledgement reflects the incredible work of the McCain Institute and our shared commitment to fight for democracy, human dignity, and security for a world that is free, safe, and just for all people, just as Senator John McCain did,” said McCain Institute Executive Director Dr. Evelyn Farkas.
The Washingtonian focuses on several key factors in their selection process: “Individuals with deep subject-matter expertise who understand how to effectively drive action in DC; those who grasp the nuances and complexities of specific policy areas; and experts in fields that are experiencing particularly dramatic change under the current administration.”
Farkas was nominated in the category of National Security & Defense along with twenty other leaders, marking her third recognition by the magazine. Her recognition highlights her efforts to promote the McCain Institute’s national security agenda, character-driven leadership, bipartisan solutions, and support for NATO allies.
McCain Institute Board Member Elisa Massimino was also included in the Foreign Affairs category of the list.
See the full list HERE.