Story perspectives

2026 Midterms: Senate Control Tightens Amid Competitive Races

3/16/2026

Center

Cooper Challenges GOP

Polls show tightening Senate control in the 2026 midterms.
In North Carolina, former Governor Roy Cooper leads GOP candidate Michael Whatley in a competitive race.
Republicans hold a 53-47 Senate majority while defending seats in North Carolina and Maine.
Polls indicate Democrats may gain ground in Texas and Ohio, where races are close.
GOP lawmakers express concern over affordability and intra-party divisions, as U.S. President Donald Trump shapes election strategies.

Right

Gillibrand Eyes Senate

Kirsten Gillibrand, chair of the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee (DSCC), says Democrats have a chance to flip the Senate in the upcoming midterms.
She cites anti-Trump sentiment and weak Republican candidate recruitment as factors aiding Democrats.
Gillibrand identifies 11 states, including North Carolina and Maine, as potential pickup opportunities.
Tariffs and the war in Iran are seen as Republican vulnerabilities that could be exploited.

1 of 2

Cooper Challenges GOP

Polls show tightening Senate control in the 2026 midterms.
In North Carolina, former Governor Roy Cooper leads GOP candidate Michael Whatley in a competitive race.
Republicans hold a 53-47 Senate majority while defending seats in North Carolina and Maine.
Polls indicate Democrats may gain ground in Texas and Ohio, where races are close.
GOP lawmakers express concern over affordability and intra-party divisions, as U.S. President Donald Trump shapes election strategies.

1 / 2