Following a strong win in the 2025 election, Democrats are feeling optimistic about their chances in the upcoming midterm elections next year. They only need to gain three seats to reclaim the House from the Republicans, who have held the majority for nearly three years. Historically, the party in power tends to face challenges in midterms.
The outcome will have significant implications for President Donald Trump’s second-term agenda. Rep. Susan DelBene of Washington, who leads the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee, confidently stated, “We will take back the House in 2026.”
Republicans, while aiming to defend their slim majority, also recognize that three is the pivotal number. Rep. Richard Hudson from North Carolina mentioned, “The only number I’m concerned about is three,” referring to the Republican seats in the district where Kamala Harris once campaigned.
In a recent chat with Fox News, Hudson pointed out that Democrats occupy 13 seats won by Trump and 21 in districts where he lost by narrow margins. This means that most contested seats are currently held by Democrats.
Current national polling suggests that Democrats are ahead as they head into the 2026 elections. However, DelBene warned, “We are not taking anything for granted,” while Hudson maintained that Republicans expect to grow their House majority.
Economic issues, particularly soaring living costs, played a crucial role in the Democrats’ electoral success this year. Republicans managed to regain control of the White House and maintain a Senate majority in 2024 but faced starkly different results recently, such as significant wins in New Jersey and Virginia.
DelBene noted that affordability has surged to the forefront of voters’ concerns. “It’s clear that when people are talking about the biggest issue impacting their communities, we’re talking about affordability,” she remarked, highlighting the results of the 2025 election.
She emphasized that various gubernatorial races reflected this trend across the nation.
A recent Fox News poll indicates many voters view the economy negatively, expressing concerns over rising costs for everyday essentials. Notably, more respondents blamed Trump for economic issues rather than President Biden.
The poll revealed that only 38% approved of Trump’s economic handling, marking a low point in his second term.
DelBene emphasized that affordability remains a pressing concern for families, citing various rising costs linked to Republican policies. She expressed her belief that the public is feeling the impact significantly and stressed that the Democratic message of accountability will resonate.
Hudson, on his end, attributed these challenges to the Biden administration, asserting that Republicans are working hard to address economic issues alongside Trump.
He acknowledged the importance of effectively communicating with voters, focusing on vital topics like affordability and security. “Certainly, we could always improve the way we communicate with voters about it,” he stated, emphasizing that he’s optimistic about Trump’s continued influence next year.
DelBene critiqued Republican policies, claiming they disproportionately benefit the wealthy while harming middle-class families. She vowed to highlight these issues.
Hudson referred to the recent elections as a “wake-up call” for Republican voters, stressing the need for increased engagement in future voting.
Despite acknowledging that many potential voters within Trump’s base might be less inclined to participate when he’s not on the ballot, Hudson reiterated the importance of Trump’s involvement in rallying supporters for the midterms.
“House Republicans are working very closely with President Trump and we support his policies,” he asserted, emphasizing the energy he brings to campaigning.
While acknowledging that not everyone might turnout, he maintained that having Trump involved could make a significant difference in voter turnout for the upcoming elections.
