Democrats are projected to win a majority in the House of Representatives in the 2026 midterm elections, a result that would give them greater power to challenge President Donald Trump’s administration and make it harder for Republicans to pass legislation. Bills must be approved in identical form by both chambers of Congress, giving the House majority significant leverage over the legislative agenda and federal funding measures.
The Senate picture remained unsettled, with roughly half of the contests decided. Democrat Roy Cooper defeated Republican Michael Whatley in North Carolina, taking a seat previously held by the Republicans. Democrats also gained a seat in South Carolina, according to the election-night overview. In Georgia, Democratic incumbent Jon Ossoff won re-election. Republican Ashley Moody won in Florida, where the Senate seat remained in Republican hands.
Democrats were also projected to prevail in New Hampshire, where Chris Pappas secured a Senate seat, and in Virginia, where the party had already retained a seat, according to reports cited in the live coverage. Republicans held seats in Wyoming, Florida, Kentucky and West Virginia. With several races still open, the final balance of the 100-seat Senate was not yet clear.
Georgia elected Democrat Keisha Lance Bottoms as governor, making her the first woman and the first Black person to hold the office. In Florida, Republican Byron Donalds was elected the state’s first Black governor.
Early voter surveys suggested dissatisfaction with Trump’s performance. His approval stood at about 38%, below the 45% recorded in 2018, during his first term. Around 65% of surveyed voters said his policies were worsening the economy.
Sources: Süddeutsche Zeitung.