Tight Senate and House Races Put Congress Control in Play

Voters across several states are heading to the polls in contests that could reshape the balance of power in Washington and affect President Donald Trump's remaining time in office. With Republicans holding the Senate, Democrats need a net gain of four seats to take control and gain leverage to block nominations and investigations into the administration.

In Alaska, the race between Republican Senator Dan Sullivan and Democrat Mary Peltola stands out as one that could tip the chamber. Sullivan, seeking a third term, has faced questions over a second candidate sharing his name appearing on the ballot. He has pointed to Peltola's involvement in introducing the namesake as an attempt to split votes, a charge she rejects. Peltola, the first Alaska Native elected to Congress, has centered her campaign on fish, family and freedom while criticizing Sullivan's past work on natural resources. The outcome here may come late because of Alaska's counting process, potentially determining which party holds the majority.

Iowa presents another close contest, pitting Republican Ashley Hinson against Democrat Josh Turek. Hinson, a former television news anchor, faces Turek, a Paralympian, in a state that has leaned Republican in recent cycles. Both races reflect broader spending, with billions directed at a small number of battlegrounds identified as toss-ups by independent analysts.

Democrats are also targeting seats in states such as Maine, North Carolina and Ohio, while defending their own positions in Georgia, Michigan and New Hampshire. Republicans currently hold a 53-47 majority, bolstered by Vice President JD Vance's tie-breaking power. Historical patterns show the party in the White House often loses ground in midterms, and current polling shows Democrats competitive in several Republican-leaning areas.

Public frustration over rising living costs tied to tariffs and the ongoing conflict in Iran has created openings for challengers. These economic pressures have put once-safe Republican territory into play, even as Democrats defend their narrower map. Sullivan's campaign has stressed his military background and focus on state resources, while Peltola has highlighted local priorities.

The contests underscore how narrow margins and procedural quirks could decide control. With turnout and late-counting states like Alaska in play, the results will determine whether Republicans can maintain their edge or whether Democrats succeed in shifting the Senate's direction.