Progressives hail ‘blue wave’ victories in US midterm elections as top Democrats push for unity

Democrats won control of both chambers of Congress in a sweeping midterm victory, including historic gains in areas that had favoured Republicans. Progressive leaders say the results reject not only Donald Trump’s presidency but also the party establishment’s cautious approach, while senior Democrats are urging the newly elected caucus to unite around shared priorities.

The Democratic share of the House popular vote was the party’s highest since 1976, according to the article’s cited analysis. Progressives point to left-wing victories, including Abdul El-Sayed’s Michigan primary win over moderate Haley Stevens, as evidence that their agenda helped flip seats; moderates also won notable Senate upsets in Kansas and Iowa. Chuck Schumer said Democrats had campaigned on affordability and tackling corruption, and would focus together on those issues.