2026 Midterms: High Stakes as GOP Defends Slim Majorities Amid Trump Influence and McConnell's Exit
April 29, 2025
With 33 Senate seats up for election, including 20 held by Republicans and 13 by Democrats, the political landscape is becoming increasingly competitive.
The upcoming midterm elections in 2026 are poised to be transformative, with Republicans defending a narrow 220-213 House majority and a 53-47 Senate majority, leading to high-stakes races across the country.
The Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee is targeting 35 Republican-held districts, while Democrats must also defend 13 districts that Trump won in 2024.
In this charged environment, Trump is actively endorsing House Republicans in vulnerable districts to bolster their chances and maintain party support.
However, Trump's disapproval rating stands at 43%, a figure reminiscent of the 2018 midterm elections when Republicans lost control of the House.
In Kentucky, Republican candidates are already lining up to replace McConnell, making this race a critical test of Trump's influence within the party.
Key Senate races will include Georgia, where incumbent Jon Ossoff is defending his seat, and Michigan, where Gary Peters will not seek reelection, opening the field for several candidates.
In Georgia, an open gubernatorial race is anticipated following the term limit of Republican Brian Kemp, presenting a prime opportunity for Democrats.
Additionally, thirteen members of Congress have announced they will not seek reelection in 2026, indicating potential shifts in power as both chambers of Congress remain delicately balanced.
In the Senate, Mitch McConnell's retirement after a 40-year career could lead to one of the most expensive primaries in 2026 as candidates vie to succeed him.
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Newsweek • Apr 28, 2025
Biggest Political Battles of 2026 Taking Shape