Democrats seize Congress in stunning rebuke to Trump
WASHINGTON (Agencies): Democrats have won control of both chambers of the US Congress in the 2026 midterm elections, delivering a major political setback to President Donald Trump and his Republican Party as voters expressed growing frustration over rising living costs, the economy and the war with Iran.
The Democratic victories extended deep into traditionally Republican territory, with the party flipping Senate seats in states including Texas, South Carolina, Ohio and Kansas, marking a significant shift in the country’s political landscape.
In Texas, Democrat James Talarico defeated Republican Ken Paxton, ending a decades-long losing streak for Democrats in the state. The victory made Talarico the first Democratic senator-elect from Texas in 38 years. In South Carolina, Democrat Annie Andrews defeated Republican Darline Graham, marking the party’s first Senate victory in the state this century.
Kansas also witnessed a historic result, with Democrat Adam Hamilton becoming the first Democrat to win a Senate seat in the state since the Great Depression. In Ohio, Democrat Sherrod Brown reclaimed a Senate seat previously held by Vice President JD Vance.
Economic concerns emerged as a decisive factor in the election, with exit polls showing nearly nine in ten voters considered the cost of living a major issue. Many voters blamed Trump’s policies for rising prices, particularly grocery and fuel costs.
The unpopular war against Iran, launched by the United States and Israel in February, further contributed to voter dissatisfaction as disruptions in energy markets pushed gasoline prices higher. Trump’s tariff policies also became a major target of Democratic criticism.
The results exposed weaknesses in Trump’s political influence, with several candidates he personally supported suffering defeats. Republican support also weakened among Latino voters, Black men and younger Americans, groups that had contributed to the party’s gains in the 2024 presidential election.
The Democratic takeover will give the party greater authority to investigate the Trump administration, scrutinise its policies and block legislation and government nominations.
However, Trump retains presidential veto powers, setting the stage for political confrontation in Washington during the final two years of his presidency. The president has said he would accept the election results and work with Democrats.