Over 450 Seats in Congress Up for Grabs in 2026 Elections
On November 3, 2026, voters across the United States will head to the polls for one of the most significant midterm elections in recent years. A total of 468 seats in the U.S. Congress will be contested, including all 435 seats in the House of Representatives and 33 regularly scheduled Senate seats. In addition, at least two special Senate elections and several House special elections are expected to appear on ballots.
Senate Races to Watch
The 2026 Senate map features 33 regular Class II seats, along with special elections that will bring the total number of contested Senate seats to 35. Of the regular seats, 20 are currently held by Republicans and 13 by Democrats. With Republicans holding a 53–47 Senate majority (including Independents who caucus with Democrats), the Democratic Party would need a net gain of four seats to reclaim control of the chamber.
The current Senate map presents a difficult challenge for Democrats. Most Republican-held seats up for election are located in states that Donald Trump won in 2024, including Iowa, North Carolina, Texas, and Maine. Democrats, meanwhile, are defending vulnerable seats in swing states such as Georgia and Michigan. Republicans have only one seat to defend in a state won by Kamala Harris in 2024: Maine.
House Races and the Fight for Control
All 435 voting House seats and five of six non-voting territorial delegate positions will be up for election in 2026. After a closely divided 2024 election, Republicans now control 220 seats to the Democrats' 215. The upcoming midterm provides Democrats with an opportunity to flip the House if they can capitalize on favorable political trends and national dissatisfaction with Republican leadership.
Despite the competitive environment, structural factors such as gerrymandering and district polarization are expected to limit the number of truly competitive races. Still, early political models suggest that Democrats may have an edge heading into the midterms, though much will depend on candidate recruitment and campaign performance.
The Stakes Ahead
Both parties are preparing for fierce battles. Democrats are hopeful for a potential “blue wave” fueled by early signs of voter frustration, while Republicans are targeting several Democratic-held districts where Trump performed strongly in 2024. Senate races in states like Minnesota, New Hampshire, Michigan, and Georgia are expected to be particularly competitive.
As candidate fields solidify and the political climate evolves, the 2026 midterm elections are shaping up to play a crucial role in determining the balance of power in Washington for years to come.
