The Midterms' Message to the Industry

Congressional Investigations attorney Arya Hariharan was featured extensively in a Private Funds CFO article previewing anticipated congressional inquiries into private funds following the 2026 midterm elections. With Democrats expected to gain control in either or both the U.S. House of Representatives and U.S. Senate, she advised firms to consider which committees could show interest in their operations and what topics could put them on notice. She cautioned that lawmakers beyond ranking members or regular headline-grabbers are eyeing private equity, too, looking at areas such as affordability to concentrate investigations and tailor inquiries and subpoenas. In addition, she emphasized firms should begin preparing now, for proactive steps today can guide tomorrow's response and position a company to fend off scrutiny, mitigate risks and keep deals flowing.

"It comes down to assuming the worst until proven wrong," she explained. "Assume you're going to get a letter, assume Congress is going to come looking for you, assume a hearing might be on the horizon. Prepare accordingly, so you're not caught flat-footed and don't respond in a panic. Do that homework now, have your moment of panic internally, and then get to work."

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