Senate Democrats Target Key Races, Eye 2026 Midterm Gains
With the 2026 midterm elections on the horizon, Senate Democrats are stepping up their recruitment efforts to reclaim the Senate majority from the Republican-led 53-47 majority. The party has focused on high-profile candidates such as former two-term North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper, who announced his candidacy to succeed retiring Republican Sen. Thom Tillis. Cooper’s bid is seen as critical to flipping North Carolina, a crucial battleground state, and is expected to inspire other potential candidates. Additionally, Democrats are targeting former Senate Majority Leader Sherrod Brown of Ohio, who lost his re-election bid last year in a state that has become reliably red. Brown’s return to the Senate is viewed as key to challenging Republican Sen. Jon Husted, who recently took over the seat vacated by JD Vance. Democrats have also secured Rep. Chris Pappas in New Hampshire, solidifying their nomination in that state while the GOP faces an internal battle for its nomination. Meanwhile, Republicans are gearing up in Georgia with a contentious primary race for Senate and face potential challenges in Michigan and Texas, where Democratic candidates are vying for support and party unity.