US midterm elections 2026: Democrats make major gains, flip Republican strongholds in setback for Trump

Democrats have made significant gains in the 2026 US midterm elections, flipping several traditionally Republican seats as counting continues across key states. The results could reshape the balance of power in Congress and pose a challenge to President Donald Trump during the final two years of his presidency.

With polling closed in most states, Democrats have secured a major victory in North Carolina, where Roy Cooper defeated Republican candidate Michael Whatley by securing nearly 59 per cent of the vote against his rival's 39.5 per cent. The result marks the party's first Senate victory in the state since 2008.

Democrats have also registered gains in the House of Representatives, flipping seats in New Jersey and other key constituencies.

Rebecca Bennet defeated two-term Republican incumbent Tom Kean Jr. in New Jersey, while the party advanced in several other closely watched contests.

North Carolina delivers major breakthrough

North Carolina emerged as one of the biggest early victories for Democrats. Alongside Cooper's Senate win, Democrat Jamie Ager secured a House seat following the retirement of Republican Chuck Edwards.

Cooper's victory over Whatley marks a significant shift in a state that had remained out of Democratic hands in the Senate since 2008.

The party has also gained ground in Pennsylvania, where Democrat Bob Brooks defeated Republican incumbent Ryan Mackenzie. Brooks drew on his blue-collar background to connect with voters, with the rising cost of living emerging as a key concern during the campaign.

Democrats score victories in Texas and South Carolina

The party has made further inroads in traditionally Republican states, with Democrats winning Senate seats in South Carolina and Texas for the first time in 30 years.

In South Carolina, Annie Andrews defeated Darline Graham, while James Talarico secured the Texas Senate seat by defeating Republican Ken Paxton.

Texas also delivered a significant victory for Democrats in the gubernatorial race. Gina Hinojosa defeated incumbent Greg Abbott, ending the state's run of Republican governors dating back to 1990. Hinojosa will become Texas's first Latina governor.

Abbott had been seeking an unprecedented fourth term after winning his first gubernatorial election in 2014.

Kansas delivers surprise result for Democrats

Kansas, another traditionally Republican state, also witnessed a major political shift. Democrat Adam Hamilton defeated Republican Roger Marshall to flip the Senate seat, marking the first time in nearly a century that Democrats have made such a breakthrough in the state.

Hamilton, a Methodist megachurch pastor, defeated Marshall, who had been seeking a second term. US President Donald Trump had also held two rallies in Kansas in support of Marshall in October.

What losing Congress could mean for Trump

A Democratic takeover of Congress could significantly complicate Trump's legislative agenda during the remaining two years of his presidency.

Control of Congress would give Democrats greater authority to block or delay several of the President's legislative proposals. It would also allow them to conduct hearings, issue summonses and order investigations.

However, such a shift would not automatically strip Trump of his executive powers. His presidential veto authority and the Senate filibuster could limit the Democrats' ability to push through their legislative priorities.

The outcome of the midterm elections is particularly significant amid ongoing international tensions, including the Iran war.