Democrats have won control of both chambers of the United States Congress in the November 3 midterm elections, delivering a major setback to President Donald Trump and the Republican Party. The victories give Democrats control of the House of Representatives and Senate for the final two years of Trump’s presidency, significantly changing the balance of power in Washington.

The results reflect widespread voter dissatisfaction with the economy, rising living costs, the administration’s handling of the war with Iran and concerns about government corruption. The Associated Press reported that voters expressed frustration with high prices and wanted Congress to exercise stronger checks on the president. About seven in 10 voters said Congress was not doing enough to provide oversight.

Democrats made significant gains in traditionally Republican states, including Texas, South Carolina, Iowa, Kansas, Maine and North Carolina. In Texas, James Talarico defeated Republican Ken Paxton, marking a major breakthrough for Democrats in a state that has not elected a Democratic senator since 1988. In South Carolina, Annie Andrews defeated Republican Senator Darline Graham, while Troy Jackson defeated longtime Republican Senator Susan Collins in Maine.

Other notable Democratic victories included Josh Turek in Iowa, Adam Hamilton in Kansas, Sherrod Brown in Ohio and Roy Cooper in North Carolina. Democratic Senator Jon Ossoff also secured reelection in Georgia. The party flipped at least seven Republican-held Senate seats, regaining control of the chamber.

In the House of Representatives, Democrats made substantial gains across the country, winning seats in several Republican-held districts in Iowa, Texas, Florida and Pennsylvania, as well as in Kentucky, Missouri, Nebraska, Ohio and Utah. In Iowa, Democrats won three of the state’s four congressional districts, ending an entirely Republican delegation. Republican Representatives Mike Lawler of New York and Tom Kean Jr. of New Jersey were also among those defeated.

The victories put House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries in line to become the first Black speaker of the House. His election will require a vote by members when the new Congress convenes on January 3, 2027. If elected, Jeffries would make history by becoming the first Black lawmaker to hold the powerful position.

Democratic leaders have pledged to prioritize reducing living costs, strengthening congressional oversight and investigating the Trump administration. Potential inquiries could examine government spending, immigration enforcement, the independence of federal agencies and the business interests of the president and his family. Democratic control of the Senate will also give the party greater influence over presidential appointments and judicial nominations.

Trump sought to distance himself from the Republican losses, saying the results were not a personal rejection of his presidency. He congratulated Democrats on their campaigns but blamed Republican candidates for failing to win. He also warned that he would veto legislation he considers unacceptable.

The election marks the first time since the 2006 midterms that the opposition party has captured control of both chambers of Congress in a midterm election. The Democratic victories are expected to reshape legislative negotiations, congressional investigations and the political landscape ahead of the 2028 presidential election.

The new Democratic majorities will take office when the 120th Congress convenes on January 3, 2027.