Key Races to Watch in the 2026 Midterm Elections

As we head into 2026, all eyes are on the upcoming midterm elections. With Congress closely divided, a few key races will likely decide which party controls the House and Senate. These elections are a chance for voters to weigh in on the current direction of the country.

Senate Showdowns

Republicans are working to keep their narrow lead in the Senate. Several seats are up for grabs, and the outcomes could shift the balance of power.

Georgia: Senator Jon Ossoff, a Democrat, faces a tough re-election fight. Republicans are eager to win this seat, and a competitive primary is expected to determine who will challenge Ossoff.

North Carolina: With Senator Thom Tillis retiring, this race is wide open. Republicans hope to hold the seat, while Democrats see an opportunity to gain ground. Former RNC Chair Michael Whatley is a key candidate for the GOP.

Michigan: Another open seat due to the retirement of Senator Gary Peters. Both parties are focused on this race, with several candidates vying for their party’s nomination.

Maine: Senator Susan Collins, a Republican, is a top target for Democrats. She’s seeking her sixth term and could face a strong challenge.

Ohio: Senator Jon Husted, a Republican, will run to keep the seat. Former Senator Sherrod Brown will challenge him, setting up a high-stakes contest.

New Hampshire: Senator Jeanne Shaheen’s retirement has made this state a battleground. Republicans are hoping to flip the seat.

House Races to Watch

Control of the House will come down to a handful of close races across the country.

Colorado’s 8th District: Representative Gabe Evans, a Republican, is defending his seat in a competitive district.

Iowa’s 1st District: Representative Mariannette Miller-Meeks, a Republican, is seeking re-election in a district with a history of tight races.

New Jersey’s 7th District: Representative Tom Kean Jr., a Republican, is facing a tough challenge in a suburban district that often swings with the political winds.

New York’s 17th District: Representative Mike Lawler, a Republican, is in a high-profile race in a district that previously supported President Biden.

Pennsylvania’s 7th District: Representative Ryan Mackenzie, a Republican, represents a purple district in a key swing state.

California’s 22nd District: Representative David Valadao, a Republican, is in a perennial battleground district with a large Latino population.

These races will be closely watched as voters decide the future of Congress and the direction of the nation. The economy, national security, and cultural issues are all expected to play a role in these important elections.