Democrats take control of Congress

Democrats won control of the Senate and House in the November 3, 2026 midterm elections, flipping seats in Texas, Ohio, Kansas, Iowa, South Carolina, and Maine. James Talarico defeated Ken Paxton in Texas, the first Democrat there since 1988. Adam Hamilton won in Kansas, first Democrat in 94 years. Josh Turek flipped Iowa. Susan Collins lost Maine after 30 years to a Democrat who campaigned about 100 days. Michigan's race was uncalled; Abdul El-Sayed claimed victory, saying voters "took a chance on the unlikeliest of candidates." Barack Obama posted on X that Americans sent a "clear message" for unifying politics and concrete solutions. Donald Trump told Fox News he was "a little bit surprised," blamed candidates who "just didn't inspire people to get out and vote," said his rallies were the biggest ever, and acknowledged the Iran war and higher fuel prices contributed. He had said he would become "Mr. Veto" and then make a deal. He criticized Fox News coverage. Charlie Dent compared the results to the 2006 landslide. The debt ceiling under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act is $41.1 trillion, with an X Date next year; overrides need two-thirds majorities in both chambers. CONTESTED: No dispute found on chamber control. Michigan remained uncalled as El-Sayed claimed victory.