Washington — Democrats made significant gains in the November 3, 2026, U.S. midterm elections, flipping control of both chambers of Congress and delivering a major political setback to President Donald Trump and the Republican Party.
According to election-night projections and figures provided by CBS News, Democrats secured at least 54 seats in the Senate, compared with at least 44 for Republicans, while two races in Alaska and Mississippi remained uncalled. Democrats flipped seven Senate seats, marking a dramatic shift in the balance of power in Washington.
The results included historic victories in traditionally Republican states. Democrats won a Kansas Senate seat for the first time since 1932, ending a 94-year drought, and captured a Texas Senate seat for the first time since 1988. These victories highlighted the scale of the political shift and the challenges facing Republicans in states long considered strongholds.
Democrats also emerged as the projected winners in the House of Representatives, with control called for the party at approximately 10:15 p.m. Eastern Time. Early results showed Democrats gaining at least 13 seats, while around 75 House races remained uncalled in the early hours of November 4. With 218 seats required for a majority, the final count was expected to determine the size of the Democratic advantage.
Iowa became one of the most notable states in the House elections, with Democrats flipping three of the state’s four congressional seats. The outcome represented a substantial reversal in a state that had leaned Republican in recent federal elections.
The election also reflected voter dissatisfaction with the administration. President Trump’s approval rating stood at approximately 38 percent in exit polls, reportedly marking a midterm-election low. Economic concerns, including the cost of living and fuel prices, remained important issues for voters. The average gasoline price on Election Day was reported at $4.15 per gallon, the highest recorded for a U.S. midterm Election Day.
Georgia also delivered a significant political development, electing its first Democratic governor since 1998, according to the supplied election summary. The result further underscored Democratic gains across several states and regions.
Election administration issues drew attention in North Carolina, where approximately 2,625 polling places operated statewide. Voting hours were extended at five precincts across Columbus, Hertford, Lenoir and Wilson counties. Statewide results were posted about 45 minutes later than expected, although the reported extensions affected only a small number of polling locations.
The remaining Senate contests in Alaska and Mississippi were expected to determine whether Democrats would expand their majority beyond 54 seats. Meanwhile, outstanding House races would establish the final margin in the chamber.
The 2026 midterm results represent a major turning point in American politics, giving Democrats control of Congress and setting the stage for intensified oversight of the Trump administration, legislative battles and political maneuvering ahead of the 2028 presidential election.
Source: CBS News Election Night Live Updates, November 4, 2026; North Carolina State Board of Elections; AAA Gas Prices; KGW-TV 2026 Election Results Map.
This report is based on the election figures and source references supplied. Results described as projected or uncalled should be distinguished from officially certified outcomes.
Editorial note: The supplied figures contain some claims that should be independently verified before publication, particularly the Senate seat totals, Georgia gubernatorial result, and the reported $4.15 gasoline price.