Washington, November 4: US President Donald Trump’s Republican Party has suffered a major setback in the 2026 midterm elections, with the Democratic Party taking control of the Senate. In the latest results, Democrats have also secured control of the House of Representatives, giving them control of both chambers of Congress. The outcome is expected to significantly constrain Trump’s legislative agenda during the final two years of his presidency.
Before the election, Republicans held 53 seats in the Senate, while Democrats and two independents aligned with them held the remaining 47. Democrats needed to make significant gains to secure a majority. They scored major victories in traditionally Republican states, including Texas, North Carolina, South Carolina, Ohio, Kansas and Iowa.
One of the most striking results came from Texas, where Democratic candidate James Talarico defeated Republican Ken Paxton. In Ohio, Sherrod Brown defeated Republican Jon Husted, while Roy Cooper secured a Democratic victory in North Carolina.
The results have been widely interpreted as a sign of voter dissatisfaction with the Trump administration. Rising living costs, inflation, the war involving Iran and allegations of government corruption emerged as key issues during the campaign. The Associated Press voter poll also indicated widespread concern over the economy and the direction of the country.
The Democratic takeover of the Senate will give the party greater influence over the legislative agenda and the confirmation of presidential nominees. With control of the House as well, Democrats are expected to intensify congressional oversight of the Trump administration through investigations, hearings and possible subpoenas.
The results represent a major political challenge for Trump during the remainder of his second term. Trump has sought to distance himself from the Republican losses by blaming candidates and has indicated that he would use his veto power against Democratic legislation.
