The 10 Senate races that will decide the balance of power in 2026

The fight for the Senate is expanding to a few more states next year, as both parties tout talented candidates and point to political dynamics tilting in their favor

The fight for the Senate is expanding to a few more states next year, as both parties tout talented candidates and point to political dynamics tilting in their favor.

Democrats still face an uphill battle to net the four seats they need to take control of the Senate, which would involve winning at least two states that President Donald Trump carried by double digits in 2024. But they see a glimmer of hope following victories in the 2025 elections and as Trump’s approval rating, particularly on his handling of the economy, has dropped.

And Democrats believe they can capitalize on issues such as high costs and health care, while Republicans continue to struggle to turn out Trump’s supporters when he is not on the ballot.

Republicans, though, remain confident that they will hold onto the Senate —and potentially even grow their majority, given the GOP’s recent success in states with the most competitive Senate races next year. And they’re optimistic the party will be able to run on Trump’s accomplishments, suggesting voters will begin to reap the benefits of Trump’s sweeping tax cut and spending legislation ahead of voting in November 2026.

Both parties will have to contend with potentially divisive and costly primaries, which could further shake up the Senate landscape.