Democrats won control of both the U.S. House and Senate in the 2026 midterm elections, according to projections reported on Nov. 4. The result gives the party leverage to check President Donald Trump's final two years in office and sets up a wave of expected investigations into his administration.
What does divided government mean now?
With both chambers in Democratic hands, party leaders Chuck Schumer and Hakeem Jeffries declared victory. Trump told Fox News he was surprised by the outcome, said Democrats "did a good job," and indicated willingness to work with them, while also raising the prospect of using his veto. He ruled out a cabinet reshuffle.
Read also Democrats seize control of Congress in historic midterm sweep
Which seats changed hands?
Democrats flipped seven Senate seats, including in South Carolina, Ohio, Texas and Kansas. Kansas had not sent a Democrat to the Senate since 1932, according to UPI. In South Carolina, Democrat Annie Andrews was projected to defeat Darline Graham. Current tallies showed Democrats ahead 54-44 in the Senate and 228-139 in the House.
What is still undecided?
Two Senate races, Alaska and Mississippi, remain too early to call; the Mississippi candidates were separated by just 43 votes. Several dozen House races were also unprojected. The new Congress is sworn in in January.
FAQ
When do the new members take office?
The new Democrat-controlled Congress is sworn in in January, according to UPI.
What issues drove the result?
Reporting cited voter anger over high prices linked to the Iran war and tariffs, including on Canada. Trump acknowledged Iran was partly a factor.
