Listen to Fox News Articles Now!
As Democrats gear up for the 2026 midterm elections, they believe momentum is on their side in the battle for the Senate majority. A significant boost came late last month when former North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper, a two-term Democrat, announced his candidacy to succeed retiring Republican Senator Thom Tillis. Democrats see this open Senate seat in the crucial southeastern battleground state as a prime opportunity to reclaim control of the Senate, currently held by Republicans with a 53-47 majority.
"It’s hard to overstate the importance of getting Governor Cooper to run for the Senate in North Carolina. We’re already witnessing a potential ripple effect," stated veteran Democratic strategist Chris Moyer in an interview with Fox News Digital. Moyer, known for his campaign expertise, emphasized that Cooper’s entry into the race is instilling confidence in other potential candidates who are weighing the chances for a Democratic majority in the Senate.
Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, alongside Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee (DSCC) Chair Senator Kirsten Gillibrand, expressed optimism about Cooper, calling him a "formidable candidate" who could flip North Carolina’s Senate seat. Attention is also turning to former Ohio Senator Sherrod Brown, who lost his re-election bid in a state that has shifted from a battleground to a Republican stronghold over the last decade. Schumer visited Ohio this summer to encourage Brown to challenge Republican Senator Jon Husted, who was appointed after former Senator JD Vance stepped down.
In New Hampshire, Democrats are excited about their candidate for the Senate seat being vacated by longtime Democratic Senator Jeanne Shaheen. Four-term Congressman Chris Pappas announced his candidacy in early April, effectively clearing the primary field of potential rivals.
Meanwhile, in Georgia—a state narrowly won by President Trump in the last election—Republicans are eyeing first-term Senator Jon Ossoff as a vulnerable incumbent. Despite this, Ossoff has kicked off his campaign with impressive fundraising efforts, while a heated GOP primary unfolds among Representatives Mike Collins, Buddy Carter, and former football coach Derek Dooley.
Concerns for Democrats may arise in Michigan, where dynamics appear to favor the Republicans in the race to replace retiring Democratic Senator Gary Peters. Former Congressman Mike Rogers, the GOP nominee from 2024, is poised to clear the Republican field, partially aided by Trump’s endorsement. On the Democratic side, a competitive primary is shaping up with notable candidates like Representatives Haley Stevens, state Senator Mallory McMorrow, and progressive favorite Abdul El-Sayed, backed by Senator Bernie Sanders.
In Texas, a traditionally Republican state, Democrats are hopeful about flipping a Senate seat, especially with incumbent GOP Senator John Cornyn facing a serious primary challenge from Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton. Paxton, known for controversies and a high-profile divorce, could struggle in the general election if he wins the primary. Democrats are also preparing for a competitive primary, with former Congressman Colin Allred running again after falling short against Cruz in the last election. Other potential candidates include former Congressman Beto O’Rourke and State Representative James Talarico.
Additionally, Democrats see a glimmer of hope in Iowa, a state that has leaned Republican in recent years, particularly if Senator Joni Ernst opts not to run for a third term. They also believe they could have a better chance in Maine if long-serving Republican Senator Susan Collins decides against seeking re-election.
Stay tuned for more updates as the 2026 midterm elections approach, and follow the campaign trail for the latest developments!
For more in-depth political coverage, click here to get the Fox News app!
