The Democratic Party has secured control of both chambers of the United States Congress following significant victories in the November 3, 2026, midterm elections, dealing a major political setback to President Donald Trump and his Republican Party.
The Associated Press called the Senate for Democrats late on Tuesday night before projecting Democratic control of the House of Representatives in the early hours of Wednesday.
The results mark a significant shift in Washington, ending Republican control of both chambers and setting the stage for a divided government during the final two years of Trump’s presidency.
According to Reuters, Democrats secured at least 54 seats in the Senate against 44 for Republicans, while gaining at least 30 additional seats in the House of Representatives.
The party recorded notable victories in traditionally Republican states, including Texas, Kansas and South Carolina, where Democratic candidates secured Senate seats in contests that had attracted national attention.
In Texas, Democrat James Talarico defeated Republican Ken Paxton to secure a Senate seat, ending a decades-long Democratic losing streak in statewide Senate elections in the state.
Democrats also secured victories in South Carolina and Kansas, further strengthening their position in the upper chamber. In Georgia, Keisha Lance Bottoms made history by becoming the first Black woman elected governor of a US state.
The election outcome was influenced by voter concerns over the cost of living, the economy, the administration’s policies and the ongoing conflict involving Iran. Exit polls indicated that many voters viewed the election as an opportunity to express dissatisfaction with Trump’s leadership.
Trump, who had actively campaigned for Republican candidates, acknowledged the party’s losses following the results. The outcome represents a setback for an administration that had enjoyed support from a Republican-controlled Congress since the beginning of his second term.
With Democrats set to take control of both chambers when the new Congress is sworn in January 2027, the party will have greater authority to investigate the administration, scrutinise government spending and influence legislative decisions.
Democratic control of the Senate will also give the party significant influence over the confirmation of presidential nominees, including appointments to federal courts and key government positions.
However, Trump will retain executive powers, including the ability to veto legislation passed by Congress, meaning major policy disagreements could lead to legislative deadlock.
The results are expected to reshape American politics ahead of the 2028 presidential election, as both parties assess the outcome and prepare for the next national political contest.