Democrats have won Congress, taking both the House and the Senate in the US midterm elections 2026. That gives the party a check on President Donald Trump for the remaining two years of his term.
How Democrats Win Congress: The House and Senate Results
CBS News, the BBC’s US partner, projected a Democratic House majority shortly after 03:00 GMT on Wednesday. The Senate results went further than the party had expected. Democrats took seats in Republican strongholds including Texas, Ohio, Iowa, South Carolina and Kansas, which last elected a Democratic senator almost a century ago. Alaska and Maine were still toss-ups, and CBS reported Mississippi was on a knife edge. Republicans were projected to keep Idaho and Montana.
Why Democrats Win Congress: Cost of Living and Trump’s Response
Voter anger over the cost of living, and blame directed at the president, drove the result, according to the BBC’s North America editor. Trump said the Democrats “did a good job” and acknowledged that the Iran war and higher fuel prices contributed to his party’s losses.
What It Means When Democrats Win Congress: Senate Control and Impeachment
With Senate control and the House, Democrats can frustrate Trump’s legislative agenda. They could also attempt a third impeachment of the president.
Michigan Race and Obama’s Reaction as Democrats Win Congress
Michigan’s Senate race had not been called. Democrat Abdul El-Sayed claimed victory anyway, saying voters “took a chance on the unlikeliest of candidates.” Supporters at his rally celebrated the prospect of a Muslim senator, though counting was still under way. Former President Barack Obama said voters had sent a clear message for politics that unites rather than divides. He urged Democrats to use their new power to limit further damage.
