Democrats sweep midterms as Trump and Iran war sink GOP

Republicans suffered a sweeping defeat in the 2026 midterm elections, losing the House and Senate to Democrats, driven by President Donald Trump's unpopularity and the ongoing Iran war. The collapse was the party's worst loss in a half-century. Trump's team had planned for a possible wipeout, with internal polls showing a Democratic edge ballooning during hostilities. The war closed the Strait of Hormuz, spiking gas prices, while corruption concerns and redistricting battles further hurt the GOP. Democrats recruited strong candidates and expanded the map into Republican strongholds. The defeat was marked by unforced errors, including a failed redistricting push and a costly endorsement of Ken Paxton in Texas. Democrats, led by Hakeem Jeffries, are set to take control, with Jeffries poised to become the first Black speaker.