Story perspectives

Democrats projected to gain 5–15 House seats

By Drooid · Oct 9, 2026, 2:59 AM UTC · How we work

Summary

Story summary

Democrats are projected to gain 5-15 House seats and narrow the Senate gap.
A CBS poll finds 84% of Democrats and 82% of independents say they will definitely vote.
President Donald Trump’s approval rating hovers between 32% and 37%.
In Texas, 34% of Hispanics support Republican Ken Paxton.
Twelve clergy members are running as Democrats, with five on the ballot and four in competitive races.

History

Historical Context

In November 1994, Republicans seized the House with a 54-seat swing, the first majority since 1952, propelled by Newt Gingrich’s Contract with America and the defeat of Speaker Tom Foley. The win gave GOP a numeric edge in the South for the first time since Reconstruction and began a 12-year House majority. Today Democrats’ push to regain seats recalls that realignment.

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Story summary

Democrats are projected to gain 5-15 House seats and narrow the Senate gap.
A CBS poll finds 84% of Democrats and 82% of independents say they will definitely vote.
President Donald Trump’s approval rating hovers between 32% and 37%.
In Texas, 34% of Hispanics support Republican Ken Paxton.
Twelve clergy members are running as Democrats, with five on the ballot and four in competitive races.

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