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Democrats have won control of both chambers of the United States Congress in the 2026 midterm elections, dealing a major setback to President Donald Trump and his Republican Party.
The results mark a significant shift in the balance of power in Washington, with Democrats gaining at least six Senate seats and more than half a dozen seats in the House of Representatives, according to Economictimes.
Trump has said he will accept the election results, as the Democratic victories threaten to constrain his legislative agenda and give the opposition party greater influence over congressional proceedings.
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The election has also produced notable victories in individual states, including Michigan, where Democrats secured key political positions.
Democrats also recorded gains in Michigan, where Eli Savit won the election for state attorney general, defeating Republican candidate Doug Lloyd.
Savit, who serves as Washtenaw County prosecutor, will succeed outgoing Democratic Attorney General Dana Nessel, who is barred from seeking another term because of term limits.
In another significant Michigan contest, Democratic Senate candidate Abdul El-Sayed declared victory early Wednesday, telling cheering supporters: “Michigan, we did it!”
If confirmed, El-Sayed’s victory would make him the first Muslim-American to serve in the United States Senate.
“I am so proud and honoured to be your senator-elect,” he said, thanking voters for their confidence and support.
El-Sayed also criticised his opponents, saying voters had rejected divisive politics in favour of hope.
“You chose hate, and Michigan chose hope,” he said.
He further took aim at the American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC), which he accused of spending US$42 million to oppose his campaign.
“Thank you for giving me the opportunity to beat you twice,” El-Sayed said, referring to his victory despite the financial opposition.
He also addressed Trump, saying that after Vice-President JD Vance swore him into office, the president could simply refer to him as “senator”.
The Democratic victories are expected to reshape the political landscape in Washington, particularly as the party prepares to exercise greater oversight over the Trump administration and influence legislation, government appointments and federal spending.
The midterm elections, held halfway through the president’s four-year term, determine control of Congress and provide voters with an opportunity to influence the direction of the administration.
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