The Board’s Role in Navigating Political Risk

Erin Essenmacher argues that political risk has become a defining boardroom challenge, and she spotlights Judy Smith as one of the most credible voices on how leaders should navigate it. Smith’s perspective centers on disciplined situational awareness and a clear-eyed read of culture and stakeholders, the kind of judgment that helps organizations move decisively without getting dragged by the news cycle. The article uses real-world scenarios and emerging risk signals to show what boards should be pressing on now, and how the right questions can turn volatility into strategic clarity. Read the full piece for the examples, data, and the specific board prompts highlighted throughout.