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Democrats flip dozens of GOP seats. Republicans haven’t flipped a single one
Democrats made sweeping gains in the 2026 midterms, taking seats and state governments across the country while Republicans had not flipped any Democratic-held congressional seat, governorship or state legislative chamber by Wednesday afternoon. The results shifted power in Washington and state capitols, including giving Democrats a majority of governorships for the first time since 2010.
Democrats won seven Senate seats, at least 24 House districts, five governorships and 12 state legislative chambers, according to the article. They broke long-standing Republican holds in states including Kansas, Texas, Wisconsin and Pennsylvania, despite Republican efforts to redraw congressional maps in their favour. Several races remained uncalled, including two Senate contests, nine House seats and two governor races.
In short
- Democrats made broad gains across federal and state elections.
- Republicans had not flipped a Democratic-held seat or chamber.
- Redistricting efforts did little to blunt the Democratic wave.
Steelman: both sides, in good faith
The strongest fair case each way — we don't pick a winner.
The case for
Democrats can argue the results show voters wanted a change in direction and that their gains across federal and state offices give them a mandate to pursue their priorities. Winning despite Republican-favouring map changes may also be seen as evidence that their support extended beyond a few targeted races.
The case against
Republicans can argue that the results are a snapshot of a midterm election, shaped by turnout, local contests and the political climate, rather than a lasting verdict on their policies or support. With several races still uncalled, they may also caution against treating the reported gains as a complete account of the final balance of power.
Business Elections Government Politics