Democrats seek control of Congress as 2026 midterms test Trump and Republicans
Democrats need net gains of four seats in each chamber to take control of Congress, with turnout potentially exceeding 100 million and advertising spending already at a record.
Washington, United States. Democrats are seeking to capture both chambers of Congress in the 2026 midterm elections, putting President Donald Trump and Republican congressional majorities under pressure. The party needs a net gain of four seats in each chamber to secure control.
The contest for Congress
Republicans currently lead the House of Representatives by 218 seats to 214. There are also two vacant seats and one independent who caucuses with the Republican Party.
In the Senate, Republicans have 53 seats against the Democrats’ 47. The battle for control could hinge on 10 races, including contests in Maine, Ohio, North Carolina, Iowa and Georgia.
Turnout and campaign spending
Participation could exceed 100 million voters if turnout follows the pattern of the previous midterm election in 2022. Midterms nevertheless tend to draw fewer voters than presidential contests: the 2024 presidential election recorded more than 155 million votes.
According to advertising tracker AdImpact, spending on political advertisements already aired had reached a record $3.8 billion by October 12. Battleground Senate contests in Texas, Ohio and Michigan accounted for the highest spending.
Campaign finance records show that Elon Musk alone has contributed about $366 million in support of Republicans.
A test of presidential performance
Midterms take place halfway through a president’s four-year term, without the presidency itself appearing on the ballot. They are generally difficult elections for the party holding the White House, Congress or both, leaving Trump and his party politically vulnerable in 2026 as Republicans control the presidency and both congressional chambers.
The elections offer voters a chance to assess the president’s performance. An unfavourable verdict can prompt the White House to adjust its direction.
The results can also help prospective presidential candidates shape their messages for the next presidential contest, scheduled for 2028.
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