Democrats gain Senate control as Republicans move to delay leadership votes

Democrats and independents who caucus with them have won at least 54 United States Senate seats following Tuesday's midterm elections, Fox News reported. Pending calls in Mississippi and Alaska could increase that total to 56 seats. The victory shifts control of the chamber to the Democratic Party. [1]

Senator Ron Johnson, a Wisconsin Republican, is leading an effort to postpone scheduled elections for the Senate Republican leadership team, according to the Washington Examiner and The Hill. In a planned letter to Senate Republican Conference Chairman Tom Cotton, Johnson called the elections premature after the party's election losses. [4][6]

The Washington Post reported that Senator Chuck Schumer is poised to lead the Senate again following the Democratic wins. The outlet noted that the new majority will provide Democrats with enough votes to block Supreme Court nominees. [3]

Republicans are looking ahead to potential gains in the 2028 elections, Fox News reported. To flip the chamber back to Republican control in 2028, the party would need to win at least four seats in competitive states while holding the vice presidency. [1]