The Democratic Party gained power across the country in the midterms. Now what?

Newly elected Democratic U.S. Senators walk toward an orientation meeting inside the U.S. Capitol on Nov. 09, 2026 in Washington, DC. From left to right are Sen.-elect Juliana Stratton (D-IL), Sen.-elect Annie Andrews (D-SC), Sen.-elect Peggy Flanagan (D-MN), Sen.-elect James Talarico (D-TX), Sen.-elect Josh Turek (D-IA), and Sen.-elect Troy Jackson (D-ME).

Voters handed Democrats the keys to power across the country and expect them to drive in a different direction. Party leaders are now trying to figure out which way to go.

(Image credit: Win McNamee)