By Islam El-Sakka
Democrats face an uphill battle to win the US Senate in the November 2026 midterms, needing a net gain of four seats to overcome a 53-47 Republican majority. With 35 seats up for election, polling shows Democrats leading in several battleground states as voter dissatisfaction with President Donald Trump, the Iran war, and rising prices shifts the political landscape.
Georgia: Jon Ossoff Leads in Polls
In Georgia, incumbent Democrat Jon Ossoff holds a consistent lead over Republican Representative Mike Collins across major polls, with margins ranging from 4 to 11 percentage points. Ossoff's campaign has gained attention for viral videos criticizing Trump's election fraud claims.
New Hampshire: Pappas Favored to Hold Seat
Democratic Representative Chris Pappas leads former Senator John Sununu by roughly 7 points in polling averages, giving him an 84 percent chance of retaining the seat vacated by Jeanne Shaheen. Trump's low approval in the state aids Democrats.
Maine: Jackson Challenges Collins in Tight Race
In Maine, Democratic nominee Troy Jackson, a former state Senate president, runs neck-and-neck with Republican Senator Susan Collins. Recent polls show Jackson ahead by 6 to 9 points, though Collins has historically won in a state that never voted for Trump.
North Carolina: Cooper Holds Edge Over Whatley
Former Governor Roy Cooper leads Republican Michael Whatley by about 9 points in North Carolina, a state Democrats have not won federally since 2008. Cooper's crossover appeal and fundraising advantage contrast with Whatley's close alignment with Trump.
Alaska: Peltola Narrowly Leads Sullivan
Former Representative Mary Peltola holds a razor-thin 2-point lead over Republican Senator Dan Sullivan in Alaska. Peltola, the first Alaska Native in Congress, campaigns as an independent voice distancing from national Democrats.
Iowa: Paralympian Turek Slightly Ahead
In Iowa, Democratic state Representative Josh Turek, a two-time Paralympic gold medalist, leads Republican Ashley Hinson by about 1 point. The open seat follows Senator Joni Ernst's retirement, and Democrats hope economic discontent aids their candidate.
Texas: Talarico Leads Paxton After Bruising Primary
Texas State Representative James Talarico holds a 4-point lead over Republican Attorney General Ken Paxton, who survived a contentious primary and impeachment saga. Democrats have not won a Senate race in Texas since 1988.
Ohio: Brown Seeks Comeback Against Husted
Former Senator Sherrod Brown, defeated in 2024, leads appointed Republican Senator Jon Husted by roughly 3 points in Ohio. The race centers on data center energy policy, with Brown attacking Husted as the "face of data centers."
