Democrats and independents caucusing with them have secured 54 seats in the U.S. Senate following the 2026 midterm elections, with election calls still pending in Mississippi and Alaska that could push the number to 56.
The outcome delivers Democratic control of both chambers. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer said, "I'll be re-elected as Majority Leader" after the sweep.
For Republicans to regain Senate control in 2028, they must flip at least four seats—a difficult math that assumes the GOP holds the vice presidency. Iowa's election illustrates the GOP's problem: Democrat Josh Turek defeated Republican Ashley Hinson by four percentage points. Republican Senator Chuck Grassley, 93, must decide whether to seek another term. If he retires before 2028, Iowa's incoming Democratic governor could appoint his replacement, cementing Democratic control of that seat.
Democrats could also expand the Senate itself. The potential admission of Puerto Rico and Washington, D.C. as full states would add four Senate seats, almost certainly benefiting Democrats. Such a move would require eliminating or overcoming the legislative filibuster—a step some moderate-state Democrats may resist. President Donald Trump could veto any statehood bill, and Democrats currently lack the votes to override a veto.
If Republicans lose the White House in 2028, however, Democrats could pursue statehood more aggressively.
Assuming neither territory becomes a state, Democrats will defend six Senate seats in 2028 that Republicans see as winnable. Republicans will need near-perfect performance nationally to capitalize on those races.
