US midterms: Democrats gain control of Senate from Republicans

In the United States midterm elections held on November 3, 2026, the Democratic Party made significant gains, securing control of the Senate from the Republican Party. Susan Collins, the longest-serving female Republican senator in US history, conceded defeat to Democratic challenger Troy Jackson, with projections showing Jackson leading with 52.4% of the votes compared to Collins' 47.5%.

Collins, representing Maine since 1997, was known for her moderate stance and willingness to vote alongside Democrats, which often gave her significant influence in Washington.

President Donald Trump acknowledged that the war in Iran and rising gasoline prices contributed to Republicans' losses. He expressed surprise at the results and indicated a willingness to cooperate with Democrats on certain issues, such as immigration, but warned of potential vetoes for proposals he opposed. However, Trump did not expect changes to his Cabinet following the election.

Despite the outcomes, Trump suggested that Democrats had done a good job and expressed a desire to work with them on specific issues. The midterms saw Democrats winning in at least six states, including a surprise victory in Texas, Kansas, and South Carolina. One notable win was by Adam Hamilton, a Democrat and Methodist megachurch pastor, who defeated Republican Senator Roger Marshall in Kansas, marking a historic upset as Democrats had not won a Senate race in the state in 94 years.

Hamilton's campaign focused on appealing to moderate Republicans and independent voters concerned with rising living costs and Trump's handling of the economy and Iran war.

Another significant win was by James Talarico, a Democrat, in Texas, where Republicans had not elected a senator in 38 years. Talarico's victory brought Democrats closer to controlling both houses of Congress, marking a major rebuke to Trump and his legislative agenda.