Can the Democrats Take Back the Senate?
Democrats are seeing improved electoral prospects in their effort to regain control of the Senate, as declining approval ratings for President Trump and rising economic concerns create opportunities in key states. However, internal party divisions and a lack of strong enthusiasm for Democratic candidates complicate the path forward. The party must navigate competitive races in states like Iowa, Texas, and North Carolina to achieve the four-seat gain needed for a Senate majority.
- ▪Democrats need a net gain of four Senate seats to regain control, with key races in Alaska, Iowa, North Carolina, Ohio, Texas, and Maine.
- ▪In Iowa, Democrats Josh Turek and Zach Wahls are competing in a primary for an open seat left by retiring Republican Joni Ernst.
- ▪Trump’s approval ratings have fallen below 40%, and rising inflation and gas prices are contributing to voter dissatisfaction.
- ▪The Democratic Party’s approval rating is around 40%, similar to the GOP’s, indicating limited enthusiasm for either party.
- ▪Primary contests in states like Michigan and Texas reflect internal Democratic divisions over issues such as Gaza and economic populism.
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CommentCan the Democrats Take Back the Senate?Their electoral prospects are finally improving, but opportunities can quickly give way to divisions. Does the Party have a plan?By Amy Davidson SorkinMay 17, 2026Photo illustration by Cristiana Couceiro; Source photographs from GettySave this storySave this storySave this storySave this storyIn a debate for the Democratic nomination for the Senate in Iowa this month, one of the moderators, Erin Murphy, asked the candidates, Josh Turek and Zach Wahls, both state legislators, a reasonable, if downbeat, question.
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