The US Democratic Party won majorities in both the Senate and House of Representatives following the November 3, 2026 midterm elections, ending two years of Republican control of Congress. However, vote counting continues in several districts, with final certification of results expected in November and December, the Experts Club information and analytical center reports.
According to figures published by The Guardian on November 4, Democrats secured at least 228 seats in the House of Representatives, compared with 139 for Republicans. Winners had been determined in 367 of the 435 districts, leaving 68 seats undecided. A majority in the House requires 218 seats.
In the Senate, Democrats and two independent senators who caucus with the party secured 54 seats, compared with 44 held by Republicans. The outcomes of two Senate races remained undecided at the time of publication.
Among the most significant developments were Democratic victories in states long regarded as Republican strongholds. Democrats captured previously Republican-held Senate seats in Texas, Kansas, Iowa, Ohio, Maine, North Carolina and South Carolina.
In Texas, Democrat James Talarico became the first member of his party elected to the Senate from the state in 38 years. In Kansas, Adam Hamilton defeated incumbent Senator Roger Marshall, while former Democratic Senator Sherrod Brown returned to the Senate in Ohio.
The party also achieved victories in gubernatorial elections. Democrat Gina Hinojosa defeated incumbent Texas Governor Greg Abbott, while Keisha Lance Bottoms won in Georgia, Amy Acton in Ohio and Rob Sand in Iowa.
According to voter surveys, the main sources of public dissatisfaction included the high cost of living, inflation, economic difficulties, the war with Iran and the trade policies of President Donald Trump’s administration. Nearly nine in ten respondents identified the cost of living as an important factor in their voting decisions.
Nevertheless, final election results have yet to be established. In particular, Senate races in Alaska and Mississippi remained unresolved, while votes were still being counted in dozens of House districts.
According to Ballotpedia, most states will complete official certification of their results during November and December. California, for example, plans to certify its results by December 11.
Democratic control of Congress could significantly affect US economic policy. The party will gain greater influence over the federal budget, tax legislation, government spending and regulation of the financial and technology sectors.
The election results are also important for Ukraine because Congress plays a role in approving defense expenditures and international assistance programs. Democrats will have greater opportunities to influence US support for Ukraine, although specific decisions will depend on cooperation between Congress and the Trump administration.
The newly elected Congress will begin its term on January 3, 2027. Until then, the current Congress will remain in office.
Thus, the main political outcome of the midterm elections is already clear: Democrats have secured control of both chambers of Congress, although the final distribution of seats will not be known until vote counting and official certification are completed.
