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Democrats Close In on Senate Majority as Midterm Elections Near

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Democrats Close In on Senate Majority as Midterm Elections Near
Photo: Republican candidate for U.S. Senate from Texas, Ken Paxton, campaigns with U.S. Senator John Barrasso (R-WY) at Betty Rose's Little Brisket barbecue, ahead of the November 3rd U.S. midterm elections, in Abilene, Texas, on October 28, 2026. | Photo Credit

As the United States approaches the midterm elections next week, President Donald Trump’s prospects for maintaining Republican control of Congress are weakening. Since early 2026, forecasts have indicated that the GOP would lose the U.S. House of Representatives. Recent trends now suggest that the Senate is also within reach of the Democrats. The GOP holds a 53–47 majority in the Senate, with 35 seats up for election this year. Seven of those seats—classified as “toss ups” by the Cook Political Report—are in Iowa, Arkansas, Kansas, Maine, Michigan, Ohio, and Texas. All of these seats, except Michigan, are currently held by Republicans. Published - October 29, 2026 09:58 pm IST

Frequently asked questions

How many Senate seats are up for election this year?

35 seats.

Which Senate seats are classified as toss ups by the Cook Political Report?

Iowa, Arkansas, Kansas, Maine, Michigan, Ohio, and Texas.

Which of those toss-up seats are currently held by Republicans?

All except Michigan.

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