Democrats have won control of the US House of Representatives in the 2026 midterm elections, as the party flipped multiple Republican-held seats and significantly outperformed expectations.
The network’s Decision Desk estimated Democrats would ultimately secure about 255 seats against 180 for Republicans, well above the 218 needed for a majority. Early counts showed Democrats holding 221 seats with a net gain of 28, while Republicans had 129, with dozens of races still uncalled.
Democrats racked up victories in key battlegrounds and made inroads into districts that President Donald Trump carried by wide margins in 2024. The party flipped seats across several states, including competitive districts in Pennsylvania, Iowa, Ohio, Virginia and elsewhere.
In Pennsylvania’s 1st District, Democrat Harvie was projected the winner over Republican Fitzpatrick. In Iowa’s 1st, Democrat Bohannan defeated Republican Miller-Meeks. Other projected Democratic gains included seats in Colorado, New Jersey, Nebraska, North Carolina and Wisconsin.
Republicans held some competitive districts, including races in Michigan and Ohio, but the overall tide favoured Democrats.
The outcome marks a major shift in control of the House, positioning Democrats to set the legislative agenda in the lower chamber of Congress.
