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By Basant El-Faramawy
Democrats have taken control of both the House of Representatives and the Senate in the 2026 midterm elections, dealing a significant blow to President Donald Trump's second term.
Democrats Flip Key Seats
With the majority of preliminary results declared, Democrats won Senate races in former Republican strongholds including Texas, Kansas, South Carolina, Ohio, Maine, and Iowa. The party also regained the House, flipping seats in Kentucky, New Jersey, Indiana, and North Carolina. Historic victories included James Talarico in Texas, Annie Andrews in South Carolina, and Sherrod Brown in Ohio. Senator Jon Ossoff held his Georgia seat, dashing Republican hopes.
Election Seen as Referendum on Trump
The midterms were widely viewed as a referendum on Trump's presidency, with Democratic candidates blaming the administration for a cost-of-living crisis and economic fallout from the Iran war. Republicans sought to portray their opponents as too extreme.
Trump Concedes Democrats 'Did a Good Job'
Calling into Fox News as results came in, Trump acknowledged Democrats "did a good job" and signaled willingness to work with them for his final two years, but ruled out compromise on immigration and transgender rights. He vowed to use his veto power against legislation he deemed "insane."
Outstanding Ballots and Potential Challenges
Full results are not expected immediately; polls in Alaska close at 1 a.m. Eastern, and ballots received through Election Day continue to be processed. Potential Republican-led legal challenges and Trump administration intervention could delay final certification for days or weeks.
