Key facts
- President Donald Trump's unpopularity is a significant factor in the upcoming midterm elections.
- Democrats need to gain four seats to control the Senate.
- Nine Senate races are considered competitive and will determine control of the chamber.
- Several key Senate races feature candidates with close ties to Donald Trump, which may be a liability.
- Redistricting could benefit Democrats in the House of Representatives.
President Donald Trump's declining approval ratings are casting a shadow over Republican prospects in the upcoming midterm elections, potentially jeopardizing their control of Congress. Democrats are targeting key races in both the House and Senate to expand their majorities.
In the race for the Senate, Democrats need to secure four additional seats to gain control of the 100-member chamber. Analysts have identified nine highly competitive races that are expected to determine the balance of power. Several of these contests feature Republican candidates closely aligned with Trump, a factor that could prove detrimental given his low approval ratings.
In North Carolina, Democratic former Governor Roy Cooper is leading Republican operative Michael Whatley, an ally of Trump. Michigan's race is a defensive battle for Democrats, with incumbent Senator Gary Peters retiring and facing Republican Mike Rogers. Texas has emerged as a surprise battleground, with Democrat James Talarico challenging Republican Attorney General Ken Paxton. Alaska's incumbent Republican Senator Dan Sullivan faces a unique challenge with another candidate sharing his name on the ballot, alongside a Democratic challenger, Mary Peltola. Iowa's competitive race sees Republican Representative Ashley Hinson facing state representative Josh Turek, with the state's agricultural sector impacted by tariffs and fuel prices. In Maine, Democrat Troy Jackson is challenging moderate Republican Senator Susan Collins. Georgia's Democratic Senator Jon Ossoff is seeking reelection against Trump-backed Republican Representative Mike Collins. Ohio's former Democratic Senator Sherrod Brown is aiming to reclaim his seat from incumbent Republican Senator Jon Husted. New Hampshire's primary will determine the nominees for retiring Senator Jeanne Shaheen's seat, with Republican John Sununu expected and Democratic Representative Chris Pappas leading his party's field.
Meanwhile, redistricting efforts in California may provide an advantage to Democrats in the House of Representatives, potentially allowing them to gain seats.