New Delhi: Democrats have taken control of the US Senate following a series of significant victories in the 2026 midterm elections, dealing a major political setback to President Donald Trump. The party overturned Republican advantages in several traditionally conservative states while successfully defending key seats across the country.
Democrats secured major victories in Texas, South Carolina and North Carolina, while retaining their Senate seats in Georgia and New Hampshire. The results mark a significant change in Washington’s political balance, ending the Republican majority in the 100-member Senate.
Republicans had entered the elections with a 53 to 47 advantage. However, a series of unexpected Democratic victories reversed the balance of power and gave the opposition party control of the chamber for the first time since the 2020 election cycle.
One of the biggest surprises came from Texas, where Democrat James Talarico defeated Republican Ken Paxton. The victory represents a historic achievement for Democrats, who had not won a US Senate election in the state since 1988.
In South Carolina, Democrat Annie Andrews defeated Darline Graham, the sister of the late Senator Lindsey Graham. Andrews, a paediatrician with no previous elected political experience, overcame strong Republican expectations to secure the seat.
Democrats also registered a major victory in North Carolina, where former governor Roy Cooper defeated Republican candidate Michael Whatley. The result marked the first Democratic Senate victory in the state since 2008.
The party also retained several important seats. Georgia’s Jon Ossoff defeated Republican Mike Collins, while Chris Pappas won in New Hampshire against former senator John Sununu. Pappas will become the first openly gay man elected to the US Senate.
Democratic incumbents also secured victories in Virginia, Delaware, New Jersey, Rhode Island and Massachusetts.
The results represent a major challenge for Trump’s administration, with economic concerns and rising living costs emerging as important election issues.
With control of the Senate, Democrats will gain greater influence over legislation, presidential appointments, committee leadership and congressional investigations. The outcome could also complicate Trump’s legislative agenda during the final two years of his presidency, particularly if Republicans lose control of the House of Representatives as well.
