Women voters fueled Democratic gains in 2026 US midterms

Women voters were pivotal in the 2026 US midterm elections, helping Democrats flip seven Senate seats and secure a decisive majority, with the party projected to hold 258 House seats against 177 for Republicans. An estimated 64 million women voted, comprising 53 percent of all voters, with 61 percent backing Democrats—a 13-point shift from 2024. Support surged among Hispanic women (up 28 points) and young women, while 93 percent of Black women voted Democratic. Historic wins included Deb Haaland as the first Native American governor and Keisha Lance Bottoms as the first Black female governor. At least 100 women are predicted to serve in the House. The wave was driven by inflation, tariffs, and restrictions on reproductive healthcare.