As the 2026 midterm elections loom, both major political parties are strategizing to secure control of Congress. Republicans are centering their efforts around President Donald Trump, who is amassing a substantial war chest.
According to the Associated Press, Trump’s fundraising has surpassed $600 million, with a goal to reach $1 billion to influence key races and maintain Republican majorities in Congress. It also remains to be seen how Trump will use endorsements to boost Republican candidates.
Trump’s strategy hinges on the belief that financial resources translate to political power and he plans to remain a prominent figure in the political landscape through 2026 and beyond. Additionally, Republicans are addressing negative economic sentiment, as reported by NBC News.
On the Democratic side, the focus is shifting toward young men, a demographic where they have been losing traction. Maryland Gov. Wes Moore and other Democratic leaders emphasize the importance of addressing concerns such as jobs, mental health and the feeling of being left behind.
Democrats aim to engage this group by utilizing platforms like YouTube and podcasts, focusing on listening and rebuilding trust, according to NPR.
In the House, Republicans currently hold 220 of the 435 seats. That means if they lose just three seats, Democrats could reclaim the majority with 218. The Senate picture is slightly more complicated: Republicans have a 53-47 edge, but 35 seats are up for grabs in 2026, including two special elections in Florida and Ohio. For Democrats to flip the Senate, they’d need a net gain of four seats.
In addition, there are Democratic senators retiring in Michigan, New Hampshire and Minnesota, giving Republicans a chance to flip those seats. One of the most powerful senators, Dick Durbin, is retiring in Illinois, but that is seen as a strong blue state.
Looking ahead, a survey from the Center for Politics’ Sabato’s Crystal Ball indicates that most voters expect Republicans to secure slim majorities in both the House and Senate. However, half of those surveyed believe Trump’s approval rating will decline over the next year, potentially complicating the GOP’s efforts.
Currently, a Quinnipiac poll reveals that just 38% of voters approve of Trump’s performance as president, while 54% disapprove. The dissatisfaction extends to Congress, with only 21% approving of Democrats’ performance and 32% approving of Republicans’. This data suggests a frustrated electorate as the 2026 election cycle approaches.
Have a news tip? Contact Janae Bowens at jnbowens@sbgtv.com or at x.com/JanaeBowens. Content from The National Desk is provided by Sinclair, the parent company of FOX45 News.