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Democrats Gain Ground as Trump Faces Scandal and Low Approval

1/15/2026

39 9 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

The Cook Political Report shifted 18 House races toward Democrats.
U.S. President Donald Trump has low approval ratings.
Democrats need to flip three seats to gain a House majority, reflecting historical midterm trends against the sitting president's party.
Eight races moved from "Likely Democrat" to "Solid Democrat" while several Republican-held districts became toss-ups.
Republican Rep. Cory Mills faces scandals.

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Story summary

The Cook Political Report shifted 18 House races toward Democrats.
U.S. President Donald Trump has low approval ratings.
Democrats need to flip three seats to gain a House majority, reflecting historical midterm trends against the sitting president's party.
Eight races moved from "Likely Democrat" to "Solid Democrat" while several Republican-held districts became toss-ups.
Republican Rep. Cory Mills faces scandals.