The races that will decide control of the US Senate
SPY•Democrats need a net gain of at least four seats to take control of the Senate, where Republicans hold a 53-47 majority. Competitive contests span 10 states, with fundraising, campaign spending and recent polls shaping the races.
1. Control hangs in balance
Democrats need to gain at least four Senate seats in November’s midterm elections to wrest control from Republicans, who hold a 53-47 majority. Voter discontent over President Donald Trump, the Iran war and rising prices has put races in states Trump won in 2024 into play, while Republicans are also targeting Democratic-held seats.
2. Competitive races
Democratic targets include Alaska, Iowa, Kansas, Maine, North Carolina, Ohio and Texas. Republican candidates or groups have outspent Democrats in several contests, including Maine, North Carolina and Ohio, while Democratic candidates have raised more than their opponents in a number of races. Recent polls show close contests in Alaska, Iowa, Kansas, Maine and Texas, and Democratic leads in North Carolina and Ohio.
3. Republicans target seats
Republicans are targeting Democratic-held seats in Georgia, Michigan and New Hampshire. Recent polls show Democratic leads in all three, although spending and fundraising differ: Republicans have spent more in Michigan and New Hampshire, while Democrat Jon Ossoff has a substantial fundraising and cash advantage over Republican Mike Collins in Georgia.
