The Latest: Voters give Democrats control of Congress in rebuke to Trump
The midterm result transfers both chambers to Democrats after campaigns shaped by economic and foreign-policy concerns.
TL;DR
- The Associated Press reported that Democrats won control of both chambers of Congress in the 2026 midterm elections.
- Al Jazeera described the result as a broad rebuke of President Donald Trump and reported Democratic gains in traditionally Republican states.
- The election changes congressional control, while the policy consequences depend on legislation, oversight and subsequent votes.
The Associated Press reported that Democrats won control of Congress in the 2026 midterm elections, taking both the House and Senate. The result ended the Republican control of both chambers that followed the 2024 election. [1]
Al Jazeera separately described the outcome as a historic rebuke of President Donald Trump and reported Democratic wins in several states that had long favored Republicans. The reports point to a broad geographic shift rather than a single close race. [1] [2]
AP’s election coverage identified economic concerns, the Iran war and government corruption among the issues shaping voter frustration. These are reported explanations of the political climate, not proof that any single issue determined the result. [1] [2]
The new Congress will have a different balance for legislation, funding and oversight, but the election alone does not resolve which policies will change. The administration’s response and votes in the new chambers remain to be seen. [1] [2]
Why it matters
Control of both chambers changes the legislative and oversight environment for the remainder of the presidential term. The scale of the gains also indicates that electoral pressure reached beyond the most competitive districts.
Editor's note
Election results are reported as projected by AP; policy changes have not yet occurred.