Democrats have won control of both chambers of the US Congress in the 2026 midterm elections, dealing President Donald Trump and the Republican Party a major electoral setback.
The victories mean Democrats will control the House of Representatives and the Senate for the remaining two years of Trump’s presidency, giving them greater power to challenge his legislative agenda and scrutinise his administration.
The election results came amid widespread voter concerns over the cost of living, rising fuel prices and the war with Iran.
Democrats Make Gains in Republican Strongholds
Democrats secured victories in several traditionally Republican states, including Texas, Ohio and Kansas.
Kansas elected a Democratic senator for the first time in nearly a century, while the party also made significant gains in other Senate contests.
In Michigan, Democrat Abdul El-Sayed claimed victory. His election would make him the first Muslim to serve in the US Senate.
Trump Acknowledges Campaign Challenges
Trump acknowledged the Democrats’ campaign success and recognised that the war with Iran and higher fuel prices had contributed to Republican losses.
Republican Senator Ron Johnson of Wisconsin described the election night outcome as “not a good one” for his party.
Johnson said the war and rising fuel costs had weighed heavily on voters. He also acknowledged that Trump’s involvement in the campaign may have harmed Republican candidates, although he pointed to what he described as media bias against the party.
Democrats Gain Power to Challenge Trump
With control of Congress, Democrats will be able to block or reshape parts of Trump’s legislative agenda and increase oversight of his administration.
The new congressional majority could also consider impeachment proceedings, although any such move would face substantial political and constitutional hurdles.
The results mark a significant shift in Washington and signal that economic concerns and public dissatisfaction with the administration played a major role in the midterm vote.
