By Karim Hammam
Democrats have regained control of the US Senate after historic victories in the 2026 midterm elections, giving them powerful new leverage over President Donald Trump for the remainder of his term.
Democrats flip key Republican strongholds
Democratic candidates won in states where the party had not succeeded in decades, including South Carolina, North Carolina, Ohio, Texas, Iowa, and Kansas, according to the Associated Press. Vote counting continues in Minnesota, Michigan, Maine, and Alaska.
Full congressional control expected
Combined with a likely House majority, Democrats are poised to control both chambers of Congress starting next year for the first time since 2022. This will allow them to block Trump's legislative agenda and judicial appointments, including to the Supreme Court.
Trump's influence wanes amid controversies
Trump's approval ratings declined over economic and immigration issues. His decision to attack Iran and high-profile immigration raids that killed two US citizens in Minneapolis further alienated voters. Rising gas prices from Middle East conflict also boosted Democratic prospects in traditionally Republican states.
Primary meddling backfires
Trump's interference in Republican primaries contributed to losses. In North Carolina, his criticism of Senator Thom Tillis led to Tillis's retirement; former Governor Roy Cooper won the seat easily. In Texas, Trump endorsed Attorney General Ken Paxton over incumbent Senator John Cornyn, causing Cornyn's primary loss; Democratic state representative James Talarico won the general election by a double-digit margin.
