Democrats Take Full Control of Congress After Midterm Wins

Democratic candidates secured control of both the House and Senate in the November 2026 midterm elections, according to an analysis based on Associated Press race calls. This result returns the party to full command of Congress for the first time since 2023. The outcome sets up a period of divided government for the final two years of President Trump's second term.

The Senate race saw Democrats flip seven seats from Republican control. These states included North Carolina, South Carolina, Ohio, Texas, Kansas, Iowa, and Maine. Democrats also retained their existing seat in Georgia. In the House, Democratic victories occurred in several competitive districts. Candidates won at least three Florida districts that the state legislature had redrawn to favor Republicans. Democrats also defeated four Republican incumbents in Pennsylvania's swing districts. In Kentucky, a Democratic candidate won a district in the Lexington area where President Trump received 57% of the vote in 2024.

The campaign focused on high costs of living and perceived public corruption. President Trump campaigned for Republicans by asking voters to treat his name as if it were on the ballot. However, his approval ratings remained below 40 percent during the closing weeks. Majority Leader John Thune of South Dakota posted to X that Senate Republicans created safer streets and more money for families. He stated the party would not stand idly by while Democrats attempt to reverse their work.

Rep. Hakeem Jeffries of New York is poised to become the next Speaker of the House. He said the American people have expressed frustration with extremism and corruption. He promised that House Democrats will deliver for the public upon taking office in January. Rep. Robert Garcia of California is expected to chair the House Oversight committee. He posted the phrase LAWYER UP on X, signaling a focus on congressional investigations.

President Trump said in a Monday interview with the Pod Force One podcast that he will block Democratic legislation. He stated he will become Mr. Veto and that deals may occur later. Democrats must work with Republicans to pass the 12 annual appropriations bills to fund the government. Their control of the Senate will also slow the confirmation of Trump-nominated judges. Cabinet nominees will now require the support of several Democratic senators for permanent appointment.

Democrats plan to investigate the independence of agencies such as the Justice Department and Homeland Security. They also intend to look into the business interests of the president and his family. Minority Leader Chuck Schumer of New York told a Senate floor in October that Democrats were ready to lower costs and stop corruption. He said Republicans broke faith with the American people and that Democrats intend to rebuild that trust.