The United States will hold nationwide Congressional elections on November 3, 2026, with all 435 seats in the U.S. House of Representatives and 33 seats in the U.S. Senate on the ballot. In addition, five of the six non-voting Senate members will also face elections.

Republicans enter the 2026 election cycle in control of both chambers. The GOP currently holds a 53–45 majority in the Senate, with two independents caucusing with Democrats, giving Democrats an effective 47 votes for organizational purposes. In the House, Republicans maintain a 219–213 majority, with three seats currently vacant.

Senate Landscape

The 2024 general elections reshaped Senate control, with Republicans gaining a net of four seats—expanding their position to 53–45. Before 2024, Democrats held a narrow 47–49 advantage with four independents, three of whom caucused with Democrats.

To reclaim the majority in 2026, Democrats will need to pick up four additional Senate seats, while Republicans must avoid losing more than two seats to retain control.

Additionally, two Senate special elections will take place on November 3:

• One to fill the final two years of the term originally won by Marco Rubio (R-FL) in 2022.
• One to fill the remaining two years of the term originally won by J.D. Vance (R-OH) in 2022 before he became Vice President.

House Outlook

Following the 2024 elections, Republicans secured a 220–215 majority, despite starting with 219–213 and three vacancies. Democrats successfully held their two vacant seats and gained one new seat, but still remained in the minority.

Looking ahead, Democrats will need to gain three House seats to take control, while Republicans can afford to lose no more than two and still maintain their majority.

Notable Departures

As of November 21, 2026, a significant number of lawmakers will not return after this cycle:

• 8 incumbent U.S. senators
• 38 incumbent U.S. House members

These retirements and open seats could make certain districts and states more competitive as both parties attempt to reshape the balance of power in Congress.

Both newly elected senators and representatives will begin their terms on January 3, 2027.

Source:Ballotpedia – United States Congress elections, 2026