The U.S.Capitol is seen behind a light pole, on Capitol Hill on June 3, 2026.
Cliff Owen/AP hide caption Midterms coverage: Live results | What to know | Stories around the countryStay connected: NPR Politics Podcast | NPR Politics newsletter | NPR appDemocrats have won a majority in the U.S.Senate, according to a tally of race calls by The Associated Press, setting up a new era of divided government after two years of unified Republican control in Washington.The result gives Democrats a new check on President Trump through the oversight authority that comes with the majority and sets the stage for a long list of investigations that could come to dominate the remainder of his second term.Democrats secured control of the chamber after Democrat Josh Turek defeated Republican Rep.
Ashley Hinson in Iowa, according to a race call by The Associated Press.The race for control of the House remains too early to call. The Senate win marked a remarkable turnaround for Democrats, and an electoral disaster for Republicans, who began the year with little expectation that their 53-47 majority was at risk.
But with voters frustrated about the cost of living, the GOP was forced to compete in several states that President Trump won by double digits in 2024.Democrats needed to flip four GOP seats to win back the chamber.They were able to do so with victories in North Carolina, South Carolina, Ohio, Texas, Kansas and Iowa.
Their wins were boosted by a challenging political environment for the GOP.In addition to concerns about high prices, polls showed many voters upset about the war in Iran, the president's immigration agenda, his tariff policies and perceived corruption in government.
Loading...In the closing weeks of the election, President Trump took to the campaign trail and implored Republican voters to pretend he was on the ballot.
But at a moment whe...