Democrats Secure Congressional Majorities as Key Races Remain Undecided in 2026 U.S. Midterm Elections

By World Affairs Digest | November 14, 2026

The 2026 United States midterm elections have delivered a significant political development, with Democrats securing majorities in both the House of Representatives and the Senate. However, the election picture remains incomplete, as several closely contested races are still awaiting final results.

According to reports published by PBS NewsHour, BBC News and CBS News, one Senate race, two gubernatorial contests and approximately a dozen House races remain uncalled.

Why Are Some Election Results Still Pending?

Although most major races have been projected, several contests remain too close to call.

Ongoing ballot counting, absentee votes, recount procedures, election audits and ranked-choice voting are contributing to delays in final results.

The remaining contests could influence the political balance within individual states and congressional districts.

The Unresolved Senate Race: Alaska

Alaska's Senate election remains one of the most closely watched contests.

Democratic challenger Mary Peltola is leading Republican incumbent Senator Dan Sullivan, according to the reported results.

Overseas absentee ballots are expected to be accepted until November 18. If neither candidate receives more than 50% of the vote, a ranked-choice tabulation is scheduled for the same date.

The final outcome is expected to become clearer ahead of the state's November 25 certification target.

Two Governorships Still Undecided

Two gubernatorial contests are also awaiting final decisions.

Kansas Governor

Democratic state Senator Cindy Holscher holds a narrow lead over Republican Senate President Ty Masterson. The close margin has triggered a mandatory hand-count audit of selected ballots.

County certification is expected by November 16.

Alaska Governor

Democrat Jonathan S. Kreiss-Tomkins is leading Republican Bernadette M. Wilson, according to the reported November 12 results.

However, remaining remote and absentee ballots, along with a possible ranked-choice tabulation, could affect the final outcome.

More Than a Dozen House Races Remain Uncalled

Several congressional contests are still too close to project a winner.

Among the notable unresolved races are:

• Tennessee's 4th District: Victoria Broderick faces Republican incumbent Scott DesJarlais.

• Minnesota's 1st District: A narrow margin has raised the possibility of a recount.

• North Carolina's 3rd District: Raymond Smith is competing against Republican incumbent Greg Murphy.

• North Carolina's 5th District: Chuck Hubbard is challenging Republican incumbent Virginia Foxx.

• North Carolina's 7th and 10th Districts: Both contests remain awaiting projections.

• Alaska At-Large: Republican Nick Begich faces Democratic-endorsed independent Bill Hill.

• California's 4th and 23rd Districts: Both races remain unresolved.

Louisiana Runoffs Scheduled for December

Two Louisiana congressional contests are expected to be decided through runoff elections on December 12, 2026.

Louisiana's 5th District features Democrat Patricia Moore against Republican Gabe Firment, while the 6th District also remains scheduled for a runoff.

These contests demonstrate how election outcomes can extend beyond Election Day under the state's open-primary system.

What Does This Mean for American Politics?

Democrats securing majorities in both chambers of Congress represents a significant political development.

Control of the House and Senate can influence legislative priorities, congressional investigations, budget negotiations and the administration's ability to advance its agenda.

However, the remaining election results will determine the final composition of several state governments and congressional districts.

What Happens Next?

Election officials will continue counting outstanding ballots, conducting audits and completing required certification procedures.

Alaska's ranked-choice tabulations and Louisiana's December runoffs will be particularly important milestones in determining the final election outcomes.

Conclusion

The 2026 U.S. midterm elections have reshaped the country's political landscape, with Democrats securing majorities in both chambers of Congress.

Yet the election story is not completely over. From Alaska's Senate contest to closely fought House races and gubernatorial elections, the remaining results will continue to attract national attention.

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